Exercise group modification: the case of post-polio survivors

The role of physical activity for Post-Polio (PP) survivors is well described. However, recommendations for a specific exercise are usually described only in general. A comprehensive description of such a program and its modification for individual client needs has yet to be described. This paper focuses on an exercise group adjusted to three PP survivors. Data, gathered by means of a questionnaire, include the Short Form-12 (SF-12), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GES), Sickness Impact Profile 68 (SIP68) and Post-Polio List (PPL). Exercise program is described in details. The exercise program is individually tailored. Its aims and content were constantly modified, in order to adapt to changes in participants’ physical abilities. When experiencing difficulty, participants were advised to do fewer repetitions, disregard the current exercise or take a rest. Post-polio survivors’ participation in an exercise group enables enjoying physical and social benefits despite reduced physical ability. Such information may be useful for professionals who wish to guide exercise groups for other PP survivors.