Understanding the Perception of People With Young Onset Dementia on the Experiences, Facilitators, and Barriers of Physical Activity: An Exploratory Qualitative Study.

Background/objectives: Physical activity (PA) benefits the physical and mental well-being of people living with dementia; however, the experiences of people with young onset dementia (YOD) are poorly examined. The objective of this study was to understand the experiences of persons living with YOD related to PA and their barriers, facilitators, and preferences for PA.

Methods: People living with YOD were recruited across Canada (n = 8). Participants completed a demographic questionnaire followed by a semistructured interview. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis and deductive content analysis.

Results: Three themes were identified: (a) Just keep moving: the benefits of PA describes participants' perceptions of PA as meaningful, enjoyable, and beneficial to their mental and physical health; (b) An encouraging social environment: a motivator for PA describes participants' preferences for group activities that foster social connection and support; and (c) Transition from own worst enemy to guardian angel describes participants' journeys from initial diagnosis to realizing that they can still be active and enjoy life with a diagnosis of YOD. Participants' barriers and facilitators to PA were identified and mapped corresponding to categories including self, social environment, and external environment.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that PA supports well-being, empowerment, and autonomy of people living with YOD. Significance/Implications: Program leaders can use findings to address barriers experienced by people with YOD and educate others on the needs of people with YOD to support PA participation.