Investigation of Cognitive Functions, Quality of Life, and Exercise Compatibility in Lung Cancer Patients Given Calisthenic Exercise

Abstract Purpose The present study was conducted to investigate the cognitive functions, quality of life, and exercise compliance of lung cancer patients given Callisthenic Exercises. Method A total of 33 patients who were diagnosed with advanced lung cancer were included in the study after being randomly divided into two groups as Physical Activity Adherence (PAC) (Group 1) and Home Exercise Training (HET) (Group 2). The participants in Physical Activity Adherence Group performed the prescribed Callisthenic Exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist for 8 weeks. The Home Exercise Training Group was given an exercise booklet and was asked to do the exercises at home during weekly checks. The demographic data of the participants were recorded. Evaluations were made by using the Cancer Research and Treatment Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 30 (EORTC-QLQ-C30), Exercise Compliance Rating Scale, Cognitive Function Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, and Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale. Results It was found that the patients who had lung cancer had greater exercise compliance when they performed the exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist. The booklet and supervised follow-up that were given to the Home Exercise Training Group were among the factors that increased compliance with the exercises. Also, Callisthenic Exercises were shown to be effective in reducing the side effects of cancer and its treatment. When post-intervention differences were evaluated, it was found that perceived cognitive impairments decreased in the Home Exercise Training Group. An improvement was detected in the quality of life survey subgroups in the Physical Activity Adherence Group. Discussion Callisthenic Exercise and regular follow-up increased exercise compliance in individuals who had lung cancer. As compliance with exercise programs increased, the participants’ quality of life, cognitive well-being, and perception of exercise benefits increased, and the severity of fatigue decreased. Preferring Callisthenic Exercises in lung cancer patients is considered to be more effective in increasing compliance because of the lower endurance requirement.