1000 Section - Adherence to Physical Activity in the Post–Physical Rehabilitation Period

To assess adherence to physical activity referrals in patients’ home municipalities after discharge from a physical rehabilitation program among individuals with limb amputation and acquired brain injury.

Design:

This retrospective study analyzed medical records of participants who attended the CMRLMS and were discharged from rehabilitation between January 2019 and December 2021. Data were extracted from medical and social service follow-up consultations conducted at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after discharge. The analysis assessed referrals to community-based assistive resources, adherence to follow-up, and reasons for non-adherence. Records were included for individuals with limb amputation and acquired brain injury who maintained medical follow-up and had referrals for physical activity programs in their home municipalities. The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee (approval number 4590805)

Results: Over the 24-month post-discharge follow-up, 55 referrals to physical activity programs were identified (29 amputees; 26 ABI). Among amputees, adherence was 48.3%, with non-adherence primarily due to not seeking the municipal service (86.3%). In the ABI group, adherence reached 69.2%, while 26.9% did not adhere, mainly because of lack of available slots (57.1%) or not seeking the service (42.9%). Overall, amputees showed lower adherence and predominantly behavioral barriers, whereas individuals with ABI were more affected by structural limitations in their municipalities.

Conclusion:

Adherence was lower among individuals with limb amputation, mainly due to behavioral factors, while those with acquired brain injury showed better follow-up, limited primarily by structural barriers. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve access and continuity of care.