Qualitative study of walking football participation and wellbeing among caregivers of people living with dementia

Walking Football (WF) is a modified version of football played at walking pace that was developed to increase physical activity levels in people who do not engage in traditional forms of physical activity. The focus on walking football was initially on people aged 50 and over with conditions such as diabetes, but more recently WF has been studied in people living with dementia. However, research in this area is still limited, particularly when the benefits of WF are explored from the perspective of the caregivers of people living with dementia (PLWD). This study aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of caregivers in terms of the influence of WF in relieving the caregivers' burden and the quality of life (QOL). The study uses a qualitative approach, with semi-structured interviews held with caregivers of PLWD who participate in WF. Thematic analysis identified five themes relating to caregivers' experiences: caregiver burden, social interaction, emotional and mental wellbeing, embodied activity and functional engagement, and quality of life. Three themes were identified for people living with dementia: memory recollection, physical activity, and community belonging and peer support. The study highlights that participation in WF sessions may reduce perceived caregiving strain, improve social support, and contribute to caregivers' overall wellbeing and QOL. The findings suggest that WF may function as a shared psychosocial activity, offering caregivers opportunities for respite, social interaction, and physical activity while supporting the wellbeing of people living with dementia.