Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #104862

Pei-Shu Ho, PhD, Melinda Neri, BA, Thilo Kroll, PhD, and Matthew Kehn, BA. Center for Health & Disability Research, National Rehabilitation Hospital, 102 Irving Street, NW, Washington, DC 20010, (202)877-1787, pei-shu.ho@medstar.net

Objective: To describe the process of developing a national mail survey that assesses physical activity and exercise among adults with spinal cord injury (SCI), incorporating the participation and input of consumers with SCI.

Methods: Based on a detailed literature review we identified primary content areas that were consistent with study objectives. Survey items were selected from existing national survey instruments and refined with input from clinical experts such as physiatrists and physical therapists. The survey draft was presented to consumers with SCI using interactive webcast technology (http://www.ilru.org/online/archive/2004/05-24-P-SH.html). Consumers provided detailed suggestions that led to modification of survey items. Survey items were further refined after six cognitive interviews with adults with SCI from various socio-demographic backgrounds (i.e., gender, race, and education).

Results: This mail survey includes 45 core items that ask questions concerning chronic and secondary conditions, functional health, physical activity and exercise, health risk behaviors, community integration, exercise self-efficacy and demographics. Clinicians and consumers' input led to changes concerning content, clarity, wording, sequencing, response options and format. The cognitive interviews showed that multiple questions in a table were confusing and too difficult. Specific, non-general instructions that incorporate examples enhance comprehension.

Conclusions: Consumer participation in survey development produces greater acceptance and comprehension for people with SCI, as well as enhances the content validity and relevance of the survey. Survey developers are well advised to look to consumers for input when designing surveys.

Learning Objectives:

• To learn about the benefits of consumer participation in the development of research tools.
• To determine the critical steps of survey development for people with SCI.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Survey

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.