Photovoice exploration of physical activity norms and values among rural and remote pulmonary rehabilitation participants in British Columbia, Canada

Abstract

Purpose Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) engage in less physical activity compared to the general population, which can lead to worsened symptoms. In pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programs, participants learn strategies to complete activities more easily. For such strategies to be effective, however, PR clinicians must understand their clients’ activity values and practices within their geocultural contexts. In this qualitative study, our aim was to explore physical activity norms and values among people with COPD living in remote and rural locations, using Photovoice methodology. Materials and methods We recruited 12 participants from rural PR sites in British Columbia, Canada. During two distinct seasons (winter and summer), participants photographed meaningful activities then completed semi-structured interviews. We analyzed transcripts using a three-step hermeneutic method, which revealed three themes. Results Participants discussed feeling conflicted regarding their COPD symptoms and physical activity, as difficulties in activity engagement cause stress, but remaining active also fosters a sense of purpose and well-being. Meanwhile, participants’ activities are inextricably linked to their rural, remote, and seasonal environment. Conclusions Our study provides insight into how people with COPD resiliently engage in activities in a rural environment with distinct weather variations. Findings highlight the importance of considering individual factors when recommending activities in PR programs. Implications for rehabilitation Although people with chronic lung disease often encounter difficulty and stress in completing their daily activities, they both recognize the importance of and derive great personal meaning from remaining active. The unique social, geographical, physical, and climatic environments of rural and remote dwelling people with chronic lung disease can both enable and challenge their activity engagement. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programs and clinicians must situate their activity recommendations within the geographic contexts of their clients – which can vary across the seasons. Support for participants’ mental health is a vital aspect of PR.