Pediatric Rheumatology Online Journal → August 2003 → Pain / Health-Related Quality of Life → Abstract #189

IS A RESIDENTIAL SUMMER BREAK A VALUABLE INTERVENTION TO EQUIP TEENAGERS WITH DAILY LIVING SKILLS AND FACILITATE INFORMAL PEER SUPPORT ?

J. L. Hackett,¹ B. B. Johnson.¹

¹Rheumatology Department, Diana,Princess of Wales Childrens Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom

Background
The period of adolescence can be seen as a transition between childhood and adulthood. It is a period of rapid, physical and emotional growth in which the teenager moves from a state of dependence to independence. This may be more difficult for teenagers with a chronic disease. Previous research suggests an increased need for psychosocial interventions. These may be difficult to achieve in a conventional therapy setting.
A four day residential self-management programme was designed with an emphasis on encouraging independence in the areas of self-care, productivity and leisure. Previous research suggests that summer camps have proved beneficial for children with chronic illness. The programme of the UK differed greatly from traditional US style camps. An audit was therfore carried out in order to evaluate its perceived value.
Method
30 young people between the ages of 12yrs 1m and 16yrs 10m, attended the break over a two year period and were asked to complete a qualitative questionnaire prior to, and after the break. A telephone survey was also carried out four months later to review social contact.
Results
Overall the camp was perceived as a valuable experience. The major reason for attending the break was to meet similar others and make new friends. The major benefits of the camp were largely psychosocial in nature. The acquisition of ADL skills was also frequently reported, but to a lesser degree. All reported that they would recommend the break to other young people with rheumatic diseases.The follow-up telephone survey revealed that over half had remained in contact with at least one other person. Text messaging via mobile phone was the favoured method of regular communication.
Conclusion
The benefits of such a trip appear to be largely psychosocial and may offer an opportunity for young people to develop informal peer support networks. This audit suggests that such trips can provide a useful adjunct to conventional interventions and the need for further research in this area is compelling.