The purpose of conducting any research study is to come up with better understanding of the underlying issues. The findings can then be used by a researcher or relevant groups in making decisions and other considerations. The article by Cedervall and Aberg (2010) goes a long way in achieving high levels of reliability and validity. This particular research employs a qualitative approach. This is reflected from the methods of obtaining data which include observation and use of interviews. Like many related studies which employ only one model or two methods to measure different variables, every measure in this study has been assessed using a different model and results further correlated to test the study hypothesis.
The research questions in the articles were tailored along the various physical activities that can assist patients affected by Alzheimer Disease. In particular, the questions asked were based on the experiences which patients had after physical exercises. This was instrumental in determining whether they were improving their health conditions. The interviews did not take a long time as they lasted between 30 minutes and one hour for each patient and were conducted in a patient’s home. The questions were open ended. For instance, what is your experience after the physical activity?
The sample size consisted of 2 different couples and patients of 60 years and above. The mean age for the sample size was 53 years (range 20-78). It is important to note that the approach to sampling employed by the researcher uses a basic approach whereby results are representative of the general expectation of data on physical activities and health reinforcement among AD patients.
The research setting was within a patients’ home. Two different couples were chosen from different settings. The environment was different for each exercise while both interviews were conducted at the location of each couple.
The findings from the research following the interviews and observations provide clear information on the effects of physical activities on AD patients. It is evident that Alzheimer disease (AD) begins when an individual is past the age of 60 years. The disease manifests its symptoms in varied unpredictable behaviors, language problems and memory. It is worth mentioning that referring to the age of 60 years and above does not quite indicate that the disease only afflicts the older generation. It comes out that the early onset of Alzheimer Disease among individuals between 30 and 50 years accounts for about 5% of the total AD burden. Within this age range, there are less physical activities and loss of memory. Therefore, physical activity is favorable as it enhances the reinforcement of health. Besides, age is a major barrier when engaging in physical exercise and it may negatively affect overall health improvement. Moreover, it was found out that engaging in physical activities is the best strategy for improving health. The difficulties that they experienced included exhaustion, altered walking abilities, and attitude problems.
Reference
Cedervall, Y. & Aberg, C. (2010). Physical activity and implications on well-being in mild Alzheimer’s disease: A qualitative case study on two men with dementia and their spouses.Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 26(4), 226–239.