Using Recreation for Rehabilitation Through an Adapted Community Bowling Program During COVID-19: A Pilot Study of Youth Outcomes

Abstract

Research ObjectivesTo examine the effects of a community bowling program with COVID-19 protocols on quality of life and physical abilities in children with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.DesignResearchers retrospectively examined data collected by the community-based program. Data collection occurred pre and post participation in the community-based bowling program.SettingThe study was conducted in four public bowling facilities within the general community.ParticipantsStudy participants included 34 adolescents and children who participated in a free community-based adapted bowling program.InterventionsChildren and adolescents who participated in the program bowled for one hour, once a week for six to twelve weeks. The duration of the bowling program varied according to the location hosting the program.Main Outcome MeasuresQuality of life was evaluated using the PedsQL: Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 Parent Report for Children (ages 8 to 12). The PedsQL survey was completed pre- and post-program by the parents of the study participants. Participants also completed a pre- and post-program pinch strength test, a grip strength test, a trunk flexion test, and a shoulder range of motion measure. These tests were administered by physical therapy faculty and occupational therapy students.ResultsThe subjects were thirty-four children and adolescents with various disabilities participating in a community bowling program. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) was the most commonly reported condition among the study participants, present in 14 of 34 children (or 41%). There were significant improvements (p-value=0.01) in bilateral pinch and grip strength. No differences were found in thoraco-lumbar range of motion or shoulder range of motion. Significant improvements were found in quality of life (p-value=0.01) primarily related to social and emotional factors.ConclusionsAdapted bowling had a positive effect on the QoL and physical skills of children/adolescents participating in a community-based program. The program was replicable across sites and there was no difference in outcomes from the newly established programs to the established programs.Author(s) DisclosuresNo conflicts of interest have been identified or reported by any of the researchers participating in this study.