Physical education and care of students with chronic illness at school

Abstract

This study identifies and analyses both the enabling factors and the obstacles for improvement to the quality of life of students with Chronic Illness (CI) at school, as well as the role of Physical Education in the development and welfare of this group. Following 43 interviews with paediatricians and students with CI, as well as 8 discussion groups with healthcare professionals, teachers and families, we detected a patent need for an in-depth study of the role of Physical Education in improvement to the quality of life of students with CI at school. Among the results obtained in the study, it is noteworthy that all the participating groups agree that the school, and particularly the figure of a committed mentor teacher, are essential to enabling the solid emotional and physical development of students with CI. On the other hand, we would highlight a lack of communication among professionals, the scarcity of resources and non participation in Physical Education classes, extracurricular outings and activities as obstacles that hinder the quality of life for students with CI at school. Based on the results obtained, we propose a reconsideration of the care of students with CI at school, particularly in Physical Education classes, and the provision of healthcare staff and psychologists, to create support networks for this group.