Outdoor recreation among wheeled mobility users: perceived barriers and facilitators

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation science
• Disability studies
• Recreation therapy

Background:

• Outdoor recreation offers significant mental, emotional, and physical health benefits.
• Wheelchair users encounter environmental, physical, and social barriers to outdoor recreation.
• Limited research exists on wheelchair users' participation in informal outdoor recreation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore wheelchair users' experiences and the impact of participating in outdoor recreation, focusing on informal activities.
• To identify perceived barriers and facilitators influencing wheelchair users' outdoor recreation engagement.

Main Methods:

• An interpretive description study utilizing semi-structured interviews.
• Participant photographs of activity involvement supplemented interview data.
• Thematic analysis was applied to all collected data.

Main Results:

• Fifteen Canadian wheelchair users shared their experiences, barriers, and desired changes.
• Key themes included current outdoor recreation experiences, challenges faced, and suggestions for improvement.
• Participants highlighted the need for new adaptations, supportive policies, and accessible equipment.

Conclusions:

• Wheelchair users engage in diverse outdoor activities despite facing numerous barriers.
• Environmental modifications and advancements in adaptive equipment are crucial for enhancing participation.
• Policy development and increased access to resources are vital for inclusive outdoor recreation.