The effects of participation in an arthritis foundation sponsored aquacize program on health status

Authors

Rose Ann Ruggiero Curboy, Florida International University

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Major/Program

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor's Name

Susan Kaplan

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Paulette Johnson

Third Advisor's Name

Alma Abdel-Moty

Date of Defense

4-21-1999

Abstract

The current study assessed the effects of participation in an Arthritis Foundation sponsored water exercise program on self-reported functioning and health status. Nine older community living women with various forms of arthritis took part in this pre to post-test design study, along with a comparison group of eleven older women also regularly engaged in differing forms of exercise. Both groups completed a standardized questionnaire, the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2, twice over an eight week period. Twelve scales and additional questions measured physical, social, and psychological aspects of daily functioning. Aquacize participants reported significant improvements in the Physical Component area of functioning from pre to post-test, as well as more improvements in Arm Function and Household Tasks than the comparisons. Occupational therapists need to be aware of the efficacy of programs to which they refer their arthritic clients. Findings support, regular participation in aquacize has a positive influence on health.

Identifier

FI14061571

Recommended Citation

Curboy, Rose Ann Ruggiero, "The effects of participation in an arthritis foundation sponsored aquacize program on health status" (1999). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2695.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/2695