Abstract
Physical activity (PA) programs for veterans with a physical disability are developed to promote and facilitate important outcomes, including PA participation and the transition to civilian life. Minimal research has evaluated these outcomes, particularly in regards to the role of experiential elements of quality participation in facilitating these outcomes. The current study aims to evaluate the participation of veterans with a physical disability in PA events. We hypothesized that: (1) PA and its indicators would increase following participation in a PA event; (2) quality elements would mediate the relationship between quality precursors and participation outcomes. Forty-nine (n=32 men, n=16 women, n=1 unspecified) veterans with a physical disability (Mage=43.61±8.81) completed questionnaires prior to and following participation in the event, as well as at a three-month follow-up. Questionnaires assessed precursors, elements, and outcomes of quality participation. Results demonstrated no increase in PA indicators over time. However, a quality indicator of belongingness, linkages to the community, mediated the relationship of coach interpersonal skills on PA indicators of planning and intentions following event participation. Linkages to the community also mediated the relationship between coach interpersonal skills and family integration following event participation, and at the three-month follow-up. These findings provide the first evidence linking quality precursors and elements to indicators of PA and the transition to civilian life, which is important for future program development. This study also contributes to knowledge regarding the role of quality elements in supporting desired program outcomes for veterans post-injury.Acknowledgments: Canadian Institute of Military and Veteran Health Research; SSHRC; Wounded Warriors Canada