Abstract:
Physical activity has been suggested to promote functional capacity, prevent complication, and enhance activity in daily life among people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]. The individualized physical activity program [IPA] was developed based on evidence based practice. A randomized controlled trial study aimed to test the effects of this IPA program on functional performance, physical capacity, and quality of life among people with COPD. A sample of 74 persons with COPD who lived in Phitsanulok province who met the inclusion criteria were recruited, then randomly assigned into the IPA group (n = 38) and the control group (n = 36). The 6-week IPA was implemented weekly to the experimental group, whereas the control group received usual care. SF-12 health survey, the HRQOLQ, and 6MWD were measured in both groups at baselines, 8th week, and 10th week. Descriptive statistics and repeated measures ANOVA were used to analyze the data. The results found that there were significant differences between the IPA and the control group on physical capacity, functional performance, and quality of life (p < .01). Furthermore, there were significant differences over time of all outcomes (p < .01) and significant differences of interaction effects between time and group of all outcomes (p < .01). From the findings, IPA program could be useful for promoting physical capacity, functional performance, and quality of life among persons with COPD.