The Benefits of Physically Active Leisure for People with Disabilities: An Australian perspective

Abstract

Participation in leisure experiences is a prerequisite for human development with the potential to satisfy basic social psychological needs for people with disabilities. The opportunity to participate in physically active leisure experiences has now been recognised through legislation as a fundamental ‘right’ for all people with disabilities, and a vital component that contributes to their quality of life.

The aim of this paper is to explore the benefits of participating in physically active leisure for people with disabilities to support the need for inclusive leisure opportunities in the community. This study used a sample of 185 people with a range of disabilities living in suburban areas of Brisbane, Queensland. Faceto‐face interviews were conducted using a combination of both quantitative and qualitative research methods.

The main benefits people with disabilities obtained through participation in physically active leisure experiences were: escape from their family or others; involvement in group or structured activities; involvement in casual participation; challenge their abilities and achieve their goals; meet others; entertainment or fun; and to relax. Suggested improvements in inclusive physical activity opportunities to encourage the development of these benefits included: provide a greater range of physical activity choices as well as additional transport options; a pool of volunteers or friends to support people with disabilities in their community based active leisure experiences; and better physical access to facilities such as toilets, showers, wide car parking bays, telephones, lift buttons, and greater provision of handrails and ramps.