According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, physical activity plays an important function in maintaining health, well-being, and quality of life among people with disabilities. Physical activity can help support daily living activities and independence across the age spectrum. Engaging in physical activities may help people with and without disabilities to develop motor skills, personal and social skills, and core values such as resilience, fairness, and respect. These activities may also reduce the risk of injury and secondary health conditions and enhance cognitive function.
People with disabilities have the same rights as their peers without disabilities to participate in physical activities. They may require different levels of support to participate in physical activities of their choice, such as modifications to exercises or programs; accessible playground, trails, and sports facilities; and team sports that meet a wide range of abilities. NARIC’s information specialists are often asked for information and resources related to inclusive physical activity.
Below, you will find examples of evidence-based resources produced by the NIDILRR grantee community:
- The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) promotes the use of research-based information to improve the lives of and services for people with spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and burn injuries. MSKTC’s information products include factsheets on exercise and sports after these injuries, including:
- The Power of Play: Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) on Rehabilitation Strategies, Interventions, and Technologies serves to expand access to and promote use of regular/consistent physical activity, sports participation, and active recreation for persons with disabilities through research and development of novel technologies, advanced training and educational techniques, and dissemination strategies.
- Check out their designs for mobility technology for sports, outdoor recreation, and play.
- Learn how you can submit your own ideas for assistive technology.
- The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Function of People with Psychiatric Disabilities is dedicated to advancing knowledge and utilization of innovative models to promote health, recovery, and employment for people with mental health conditions.
- Explore the Integrated Health and Mental Health Care Tools suite including the Nutrition and Exercise for Wellness and Recovery program, the Wellness Activities Manual, and a step-by-step guide to hosting an inclusive wellness fair, among others!
- NARIC shares the latest information on inclusive physical activities through our blog, Research In Focus, and Questions from the Community, including:
Please contact your primary care provider before beginning an exercise or sports regimen.
To learn more about these and other products from the NIDILRR community, contact NARIC’s information specialists.