Application of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model for development and implementation of a physical activities exposition for individuals with visual impairments (VI) at a adaptive recreation center (ARC) in Houston, Texas

The PRECEDE-PROCEED model was utilized by physical therapy students to organize and conduct a community physical activities exposition for individuals with visual impairments (VI) at an adaptive recreation center (ARC). During phase 1, information was gathered from stakeholders through interviews and surveys to determine needs for improving quality of life. In phase 2, relevant epidemiological factors were assessed through a literature review. Based on this information, deceased physical activity levels became the focus for intervention. Predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors for behavior change identified in phase 3 were prioritized. Program objectives were established based on the following most important and changeable factors: interest in physical activities, current stage of behavior change regarding physical activity and lack of targeted physical activity programs. A physical activities exposition addressed all objectives. Phase 4 ensured that administrative policy and program objectives were aligned. The exposition in phase 5 occurred on November 18th, 2014. During and immediately following the exposition, process evaluation took place through focus groups with participants and administrators. In phase 7, immediate data indicated there was a greater than 50% increase in the number of participants moving from pre-contemplation to contemplation stage of change. Five of the six activities presented garnered interest from greater than 50% of participants. Phase 8 will occur in one year with re-administration of questions from the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire-25. The short-term outcome of this intervention demonstrates the utility of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model in program development and implementation for persons with VI at an ARC.