# An Empowerment-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Older People with Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Exploratory Qualitative Case Study Design

## TL;DR

This study explores how an empowerment-based physical activity program helped older people with AMD in Sweden improve their physical abilities and social connections.

## Contribution

The study introduces an empowerment-based approach to physical activity for older individuals with AMD, highlighting its impact on both physical and social well-being.

## Key findings

- Participants experienced increased social connectedness and improved physical self-efficacy.
- The intervention led to improved muscle strength and creative engagement in physical activities.
- Participants were motivated to continue physical activities offered by the municipality after the program.

## Abstract

Background: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of incurable visual impairment and impacts daily life. There are benefits of physical activity for people who are affected with AMD; however, living with AMD is associated with lower levels of physical activity and social isolation. The aim of this study was to explore how older people with AMD in Sweden experienced participation in a 6-month empowerment-based physical activity intervention and how it influenced their physical abilities. Methods: The participants were nine individuals with AMD aged 70–87 years. The intervention comprised physical and social activities in a group twice a week and individual health coaching on three occasions. The study was based on an exploratory qualitative case study design. Results: The findings showed two themes: created meaningfulness in life and creative and playful ways to develop body movements. The findings also showed improved muscle strength after the intervention. Conclusions: The findings showed that participants had increased social connectedness, improved physical self-efficacy and physical ability, as well as improved muscle strength. The empowerment process of the intervention was appreciated by the participants and challenged them to participate in physical activity offered by the municipality for older individuals.