Physical disabilities accompany various challenges such as limited physical function. Individuals with physical disabilities engage less in different physical or social activities, becoming at risk of social isolation, lower self-esteem, and higher psychological distress. Engaging in leisure activities is necessary to counteract the negative consequences of a disability and promote good health and well-being and personal growth.
Experiencing new life possibilities and experiences through leisure engagements facilitates personal growth. It allows individuals to learn more about themselves and promotes self-understanding, beneficial for the recovery process of individuals with physical disabilities.
What types of leisure activities can contribute to the personal growth of individuals with physical disabilities? Numerous leisure activities that provide personal growth are available, but not all are appropriate for individuals with physical disabilities due to variations in lived experiences. Individuals with physical disabilities may encounter different physical challenges, health concerns, or behaviours that affect their participation in various activities. In the cases of people with physical disabilities, different contextual factors can influence their participation in leisure engagements.
Contextual factors that can influence participation in leisure activities
Intrinsic or personal factors
- These are less malleable characteristics, such as age, gender, education, income, marital status, and race/ethnicity. These factors can affect how individuals with physical disabilities engage in different physical or leisure activities.
- Due to the frailty of older people, they become less capable of participating in different activities. On the other hand, younger individuals prefer activities that offer enjoyment, provide freedom, give fulfilment, and foster friendships. These opportunities help them connect with others and feel that they also belong.
Extrinsic or environmental factors
- These factors are more amenable to change, such as social support, safety, and accessibility, availability of social and outside activities, and cultural background.
- Having a companion or social support in leisure engagements is a big factor in participating in leisure activities, unlike when alone.
- Availability and accessibility of social and outside activities can also influence their participation in different physical activities.
- Cultural background can also play a role in the type of activities that individuals want to do. For instance, Western cultures focus on personal achievement and self-esteem, while Asian cultures value activities that enhance social relationships
In pursuit of different leisure activities that promote well-being, individuals with physical disabilities may encounter various challenges to leisure engagement due to mobility and accessibility issues and lack of opportunities and resources. Several leisure activities are already available, but some are still limiting. Although it can be challenging to address all the needs of everyone in providing opportunities for leisure activities, it is important to be open to various experiences to enjoy life.
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REFERENCES: Kim, J., Chun, S., Kim, H., Han, A., & Hodges, J. S. (2018). Contribution of leisure participation to personal growth among individuals with physical disabilities. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 52(3), 201-214.
Powrie, B., Kolehmainen, N., Turpin, M., Ziviani, J., & Copley, J. (2015). The meaning of leisure for children and young people with physical disabilities: a systematic evidence synthesis. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology, 57(11), 993-1010.
Warner, G., Basiletti, M., & Hoenig, H. (2010). Age differences in leisure physical activity by adult wheelchair users. Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics, 28(4), 410-421.
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