Physical activity among children and youth in Canada living with disabilities

Limited evidence exists on physical activity (PA) participation among children and youth living with disabilities (CYLWD) in Canada. CYLWD may experience barriers and inequitable access to PA opportunities that differ by disability type. This study provides national-level estimates for PA participation among CYLWD.

Using data from the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth (CHSCY), we identified children and youth with various physical, cognitive, and behavioural disabilities using the Washington Group/UNICEF Child Functioning Module. We examined a comprehensive set of PA measures (average minutes of moderate-to-vigorous PA per day; meeting moderate-to-vigorous PA recommendations; organized sport; outdoor PA/play; indoor PA; walking to school) for children aged 5 to 11 years (N = 16 694) and youth aged 12 to 17 years (N = 11 077). We employed linear and logistic regression adjusted for age group and sex to assess disparities in PA between CYLWD and those without.

CYLWD were 26% to 52% less likely to meet PA recommendations and 27% to 64% less likely to participate in organized sport than those without, with the greatest disparities among those with mobility limitations. Outdoor PA/play was less likely among those with physical disabilities and diagnosed with autism, while indoor non-organized PA was less likely among youth with cognitive, behavioural, or mobility-related disabilities, or a neurodevelopmental disorder.

While overall, CYLWD in Canada engage in less PA than those without disability, participation differs by disability type. Improved PA data that are specific to the realities of CYLWD is needed to strengthen the evidence base and inform policy and program development to promote PA.