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The Minds in Motion[R] (MiM) program is a program created by the Alzheimer Society for individuals with dementia, or care recipients (CRs), and their caregivers (CGs) consisting of physical activity, social connection, and mentally stimulating activity. However, the evaluation on the program is limited. This case study of CRs and CGs investigated their lived experiences within the MiM program and the effects of the program. Findings demonstrated the main benefit of the MiM program is the social connection provided to both CRs and CGs. Although not the primary focus of the study, feelings of disconnect were found to be salient among participants. These findings have limited generalizability but can assist in enhancing the program. Keywords: Minds in Motion, dementia, caregiver, social, physical activity, mentally stimulating, Introduction Dementia, an overall term for a range of disorders affecting the brain, is a degenerative disease interfering with memory, language, problem-solving, and other skills used in activities of daily [...]

Adults with disabilities experience a lack of opportunity to participate in recreation and leisure (R&L) activities due to issues such as limited program availability. Overnight summer camps are a form of recreation where individuals can partake in several leisure activities while also gaining independence, developing connections, and providing respite care for caregivers. Camps offer numerous benefits for typically developing youth as well as youth with disabilities which can be applicable to adults with disabilities. This article examines a disability-specific overnight camp in Ontario from the perspective of eight staff members. Overall, participants perceived camp provided many opportunities for both staff and guests to develop meaningful connections and experience limitless possibilities when engaging in activities. Staff also felt camp experiences relied heavily on the people leading camp such as staff morale, staff training, and staff perceptions of upper management. Although the camp was beneficial, improvements could be made to better support guests and staff. Service providers should consider developing increased camp opportunities for adults with disabilities while considering suggestions for improvement as provided from this article. Keywords: Adults with disabilities, overnight camp, recreation, leisure, Literature Review Disability Definition and Prevalence About 1 in 5 Canadians (~ 6.2 million individuals) aged 15 years and over have one or more disabilities (Statistics Canada, 2017). Increased age [...]

Physical activity (PA) has shown promise in addressing social, behavioural, and motor concerns in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this paper, the experience of a seven-year-old girl ('Sophie') with ASD and other psychological disorders was examined as she participated in a 10-week PA program. Her motor and social skills were evaluated before and after the program via the Movement Assessment Battery for Children and the Social Responsiveness Scale. PA and social interactions were analyzed based on video recordings, interviews, and focus groups. Sophie demonstrated some improvements in her motor and social skills after the PA program, in addition to gaining PA and social interactions. Sophie also gained self-confidence as she was supported by the instructor and volunteer, and acceptance as she was included in an environment with other children of varying ages and abilities. Sophie's progress exemplifies the far-reaching effects of PA when offered in an accepting environment with adequate support. Keywords: Physical activity, autism spectrum disorder, mixed methods, motor, social, Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately one in 66 Canadians (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2018) and is characterized by repetitive and restrictive behaviours and interests, as well as [...]

Cri du Chat Syndrome (CdCS) is a genetic disorder resulting in physical, social, and cognitive impairments. Practicing fundamental movement skills (FMS) provides a developmental foundation that has been proven to positively impact overall development in the lives of individuals with disabilities. However, CdCS has yet to be investigated within this context. This case-study of an individual with CdCS investigated FMS and social behaviours during an adapted physical activity (APA) program. Findings demonstrated social and task behaviours that influenced Megan's progression through the APA program. As well, revealed incongruencies between standard FMS developmental levels and individuals with CdCS. These findings have limited generalizability but should be considered for future physical activity program structure and instruction. Keywords: Cri du Chat Syndrome, fundamental motor skills, disabilities, adapted physical activity, Introduction In 1963, a rare genetic disorder was identified and termed Cri du Chat Syndrome (CdCS; Pituch et al., 2010), based on the 'distinctive cat-like sound of the children's cry' [...]

Dance -- created by a moving body over space and time -- creates space for non-verbal communication and self-expression. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder may particularly benefit from the use of their bodies to convey their needs and desires. This research presents the experiences of individuals involved in two recreational dance programs for young people with additional needs, specifically children with ASD as well as their mothers, dance instructors, and volunteers. This article presents the first of two themes that emerged from interviews with nine individuals (one child, three mothers, three instructors, three volunteers), which was Creating Dance Programs for all Abilities. The subthemes were Changing the Class to Fit the Student, Juggling Everyone's Needs, and Volunteers Make It Possible. Practical applications based on this research are presented at the end in hopes that there are more opportunities for individuals with ASD and other special needs to experience the joy of dance.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition characterized by restrictive, repetitive patterns of behaviour, and impairments in social communication. Various forms of physical activity, including dance, have shown to improve ASD symptoms among children. The study's purpose was twofold: to examine the lived experiences of a family with a child with ASD, in order to examine family functioning and the effects of the child's participation in a dance programme. The family unit and dance instructor participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews, which included a myriad of questions about the family, and the child's participation in a recreational dance programme. One salient main theme that emerged was Dance, Dance, Dance, with three subthemes: (1) 'Home Away from Home' (studio as a representation of home), (2) Growing as a Person (physically, emotionally,socially), and (3) Lessons Learned (bidirectional learning between student and teacher). Dance provided many benefits to the child, including improvements in social and listening skills, as well as confidence. Further, dance allowed the child to grow socially and personally. This study may act as a support for other families faced with an ASD diagnosis, as well as highlight the benefits of recreational dance programmes for children with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with additional needs (CwAN) face barriers when accessing resources such as summer camps due to limited program accessibility. Full-day camps are a form of respite care for primary caregivers, while also providing a sense of independence for children. The arts are known to offer psychological benefits when explored in a creative and inclusive environment. This article describes a creative arts camp for CwAN from the perspective of two camp counselors and eight primary caregivers of CwAN. The camp details are described, from counselor training to the final performance at the end of the camp week. Caregivers felt that this camp structure allowed their CwAN to gain worth-while experiences in dance, drama, music, and visual arts. It also allowed them to feel a sense of safety and belonging by spending time with other CwAN and supportive camp counselors and volunteers. There are many strengths of this camp structure that can be applied to other camps in other settings. Program planners and community organizations should consider incorporating the creative arts into existing and developing programs. Keywords: Camp, children, creative arts, disabilities, performance, qualitative, Introduction It is estimated that one in nine children in Ontario have some form of disability (Stapleton, Pooran, Douchet, Briggs, & Lee, 2015). Most children with additional needs (CwAN) require [...]

"Dance for individuals with Down syndrome has many benefits; however, there is little research on this topic." Down syndrome is the most common "genetic condition," resulting in psychological, physical, and social impairments. There is research to suggest that dance may be a beneficial activity for people with Down syndrome; however, there is little research to substantiate the effects of participating in a community dance class. The present study utilized the theoretical orientation of phenomenology to explore the lived experience of a 21-year-old male with Down syndrome as he participated in a community dance class through his perspective, as well as that of his parents and dance instructor. The dance program was "inclusive" for children and young adults with special needs. Data collection included background questionnaires, interviews, observation of the dance class, member checks, and field notes. Analysis of the data revealed four salient themes although only the theme of Luke at Dance will be discussed. Overall, all participants agreed that the experience had social, physical, and psychological benefits. Specifically, the dance class provided Luke with the opportunity to expand his social circle, engage him cognitively, and become physically active.

Young adults between the ages of 20 to 24 are reported to have the highest smoking rates of any other age group. A questionnaire was used to assess the smoking practices and beliefs of 323 female university students. All participants were first year students entering university in a city where smoke-free legislation had been enacted. Results indicated that smoking rates were lower than those found among other university samples. This suggests that no-smoking legislation may promote an atmosphere where pressures to smoke are minimized, thus assisting students in making positive choices concerning their health. These exploratory findings require replication in future research. (Contains 5 tables.)

Young adults between the ages of 20 to 24 are reported to have the highest smoking rates of any other age group. A questionnaire was used to assess the smoking practices and beliefs of 323 female university students. All participants were first year students entering university in a city where smoke-free legislation had been enacted. Results indicated that smoking rates were lower then those found among other university samples. This suggests that no-smoking legislation may promote an atmosphere where pressures to smoke are minimized, thus assisting students in making positive choices concerning their health. These exploratory findings require replication in future research. (Contains 5 tables.)

University and college campuses are not immune to acts of violence. Unfortunately there is limited information regarding violence in the academic setting among women employees. As such, the purpose of this exploratory research was to examine issues that female faculty and staff members have about safety on and around campus, including concerns about safety, personal safety precautions, and issues involving victimization. Two hundred and twenty-nine female faculty and staff, employed by a university in Central Ontario Canada, completed a questionnaire sent via inter-campus mail. Awareness of services on campus that dealt with issues concerning safety was high, although utilization of such services was relatively low, with the exception of security and health services. Faculty and staff reported taking precautions which included locking car doors when alone, planning a route with safety in mind, carrying keys in a defensive manner, checking back seats of car for intruders prior to entry into the car, to name a few. Participants were dissatisfied with the following safety features on campus: lighting, signage and the availability of emergency phones. Further many reported belonging to a group on campus that was more victimized than others, namely being female. More faculty members than staff members, reported being victimized on campus, although both groups reported similar types of victimization (e.g., unwanted sexually touching and various forms of harassment). Safety is integral to protecting the human rights and maintaining the health status of individuals. As such, steps toward making campuses safe havens for students, staff, faculty and administration should be considered a priority. (Contains 6 tables.)

The current study reports on a study examining the safety concerns of male and female staff members on a small university campus. A 160-item questionnaire was distributed to 231 staff employees (49 males and 182 females), which asked individuals questions pertaining to socio-demographic information, daily routines and campus activities, awareness of campus services directly/indirectly related to safety issues, personal safety precautions taken while on campus, beliefs about safety on campus, attitudes and beliefs about safety on campus, and finally reported cases of victimization on campus. Overall, the results of the current study show that women staff members have experienced more harassment and acts of violence against them, than their male counterparts. However, while women clearly felt less safe on campus, male and female staff members did not differ significant in their attitudes towards improving safety features on campus. This appeared to be due to the fact that more male staff members were concerned about safety issues, despite the low numbers of male staff members that had actually experienced any form of violence. The results clearly indicate the need for continued education of staff, faculty, students and administration about inappropriate behaviours and actions that constitute victimization. (Contains 3 tables.) [For Part 1, see EJ777971.]

The current study reports on a study examining the safety concerns of male and female faculty members on a small university campus. A 160-item questionnaire was distributed to 100 faculty members (58 males and 42 females; response rate was approximately 30%), which asked individuals questions pertaining to socio-demographic information, daily routines and campus activities, awareness of campus services related to safety issues, personal safety precautions taken while on campus, attitudes and beliefs about safety on campus, and finally reported cases of victimization on campus. The findings indicated that not only did women feel more threatened on campus than men did, they also had experienced more cases of harassment and violence. Women also took more personal safety precautions and felt that the university should improve various safety features on campus. Clearly, the incidence of harassment and victimization is as prominent if not more so on a small university campus as in larger universities and workplaces. (Contains 3 tables.)

Limited evidence exists concerning the health of young adults, most likely attributable to the fact that young adults perceive themselves to be insusceptible to infirmity. This lack of information extends into higher education sectors, places that have venues for dispensing health information/education to many young adults. What is important to note is that some research indicates that health problems may influence student attrition, particularly first year students; however, information concerning their health problems is inadequate. As such, the overall goal of this exploratory research was to complete a thorough needs assessment of the issues affecting student health from the perspective of the student and faculty and staff that routinely assist students concerning health issues. Specifically, the purpose was to examine health issues and issues that have the potential to affect the health and academics of 1st year students. Additionally the practices, experiences and perceptions concerning university services and service referrals received by first year students, and suggested by staff/faculty that deal with these students was also examined. Students (n=412) reported a wide range of issues that have the potential to affect health, quality of life and academics, namely concerns about studying/exam writing, relationships, time management, finances, self-esteem, obesity, and grief, to name a few. Staff and faculty (n=23) reported dealing with students with a wider range of issues, such as anxiety, anger, depression, mood disorders and sleep disorders. Although students appeared quite knowledgeable about the health services offered on campus, awareness did not translate into use. University personnel should become more actively involved in promoting on-campus services to first year students and advocating the potential implications that well-being may have in successfully completing university. (Contains 4 tables.)

This exploratory study examined the influence of residential background and gender on university student drinking patterns. A questionnaire was distributed to 255 kinesiology and physical education students. Rural students (n=104) were more likely than urban students (n=151) to drink at outdoor parties or in vehicles during their first experience with alcohol. No significant differences were found between residential background and drinking motives, knowledge, or negative consequences concerning alcohol. Males, however, experienced significantly more negative ramifications, such as driving while under the influence, damaging property, breaking the law, injuring another party, and getting into a physical or verbal confrontation. This study supports the gender differences concerning the negative consequences of alcohol consumption, and adds to the information concerning rural-urban differences and alcohol use. (Contains 4 tables.)

Cervical cancer is relatively preventable through regular cervical examinations and by engaging in healthy practices concerning lifestyle behaviors, like safe sexual intercourse. Despite the benefits that regular pap tests provide, screening tests continue to be under used by women, with younger women being one of the most negligent groups. Since knowledge levels are one of the most significant barriers in non-compliance, investigating the knowledge of younger women would seem essential. A questionnaire was distributed to female university students in Southwestern Ontario, Canada and examined: (1) socio-demographic information, (2) health information and health practices, and (3) knowledge of cervical health. Preliminary analysis revealed that women that had received a Pap test were more knowledgeable about cervical health than those that had not; however, overall knowledge among all women was inadequate. Although cervical screening affords women with the opportunity to take control of their cervical health, they may not be cognizant of issues surrounding cervical cancer to understand and engage in the appropriate cervical screening practices.

University and college campuses are not immune to acts of violence. Unfortunately there is limited information regarding violence in the academic setting among women employees. As such, the purpose of [...]

Background. Despite the plethora of information concerning risk factors for falls, limited research efforts have focused on the issue of the differences in risk factors for falls based on fall status, or more specifically one-time versus chronic/recurrent fallers. Given that multiple falls have been found to be associated with negative outcomes, such as an increased risk of institutionalization, more research in this area is warranted. Methods. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the risk factors for nonfallers versus fallers (1 + falls), and for nonfallers/one-time fallers versus recurrent fallers (2 + falls). All participants (N = 2304) in this study were receiving home care services from 10 community-based agencies (Community Care Access Centres) in Ontario, Canada. The Minimum Data Set-Home Care (MDS-HC) is an assessment instrument that covers several key domains, such as service use, function, health, and social support. Nurses trained to administer the MDS-HC assessed each of the participants within their homes. Results. Of the 2304 participants in the study, 27% fell one or more times, and 10% experienced multiple falls (2+ falls). In the two final logistic regression models for risk of falling (0 falls vs 1 + falls) and multiple falling (0 falls/1 fall vs 2+ falls), the independent variables that remained significant included gender, gait, environmental hazards, and the Changes in Health, End Stage Disease and Signs and Symptoms of Medical Problems Scale. Also significant in the model for multiple falls was the Cognitive Performance Scale, Parkinson's disease, and perceived health status. Conclusions. Overall, distinguishing individuals into different fall status classifications is important from a clinical perspective, as it is the recurrent faller who would benefit to the greatest extent from fall prevention efforts and from the negative outcomes associated with multiple falls (i.e., mortality). One of the most significant barriers in determining risk factors for falls is the lack of consistency in the variables/tools used in the research. As such, utilizing a standardized tool, such as the MDS-HC, would assist researchers in making comparisons between different settings.

Background. Balance confidence is an important indicator of functional mobility and independence in older adults. Preliminary psychometric evidence for the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale is promising, with a series of four studies adding information on the discriminative and evaluative properties of this tool. Methods. The original validation sample was reinterviewed one year later. In the second study, the ABC was administered to 475 older adults ranging from home care clients to highly functioning individuals in community exercise programs. The third study compared 31 residents of retirement homes given a 10-week balance control exercise program and fall education with 32 residents who received only fall education. The fourth study examined balance confidence preoperatively and postoperatively for 27 patients undergoing hip or knee replacement. Results. ABC scores remained stable over 12 months in higher functioning elders, but deteriorated in retirement home residents over 26 weeks. Ten weeks of balance training significantly improved balance confidence, as did hip or knee replacement with standard physical therapy. ABC scores lower than 50 indicated a low level of physical functioning characteristic of home care clients. ABC scores above 50 and lower than 80 indicated a moderate level of functioning characteristic of elders in retirement homes and persons with chronic health conditions. ABC scores above 80 are indicative of highly functioning, usually physically active older adults, and are achievable through exercise and rehabilitative therapies. Conclusions. Balance confidence is amenable to change and able to distinguish between elders at various levels of functional mobility. These results provide comparative benchmarks for researchers and clinicians working with different groups of older adults.