Social Inclusion Project. Lungs in Action Program Evaluation 2022

In 2022, the average participant was a retired 70-year-old female living in QLD with a lung condition. They are likely to live on their own or with one other individual. They do not use oxygen or require mobility assistance. They have attended Lungs in Action (LIA) for more than 12 months and usually attend 1 LIA class per week.
No participants identified as of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, although 23% of all LIA participants were not born in Australia highlighting cultural diversity. Fifty percent of participants were referred to LIA from pulmonary rehabilitation services and they are likely to walk, garden or undertake a home exercise program outside of structured LIA classes.
Social isolation appears to be common in the surveyed population with 42% living on their own and a further 46% living with only one other person. Forty-nine percent of participants reported that they have made new friends since attending LIA and they thoroughly enjoy exercising with others that have a lived experience of their condition.
Results indicate an increase in functional capacity (30sec-STS and TUAG), overall health (EQ-VAS), and a decrease in anxiety (EQ-5D-5L) over the three-month period. These benefits may relate to improved independence and activities of daily living.
Respondents were extremely happy with LIA and understand how to manage their condition better as a result of their attendance. They generally feel less socially isolated when attending LIA and have made a support network within the class and feel supported by their instructor.