Promoting Inclusive Physical Activity Communities for People with Disabilities, President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Research Digest, Series 9, No. 2, June/July, 2008
Guest Author: Dr. James H. Rimmer
Co-edited by: Dr. Barbara Ainsworth, Dr. Deborah R. Young, and Dr. Michael La Monte.
Abstract: People with disabilities face substantial health risks associated with a physically inactive lifestyle. Unfortunately, even when individuals with disabilities want to increase their physical activity levels, they are often confronted with many more barriers than the general population. This limits or restricts their opportunities to improve their own health. With the impending growth of older individuals entering their 60s and 70s, many of whom will enter the ranks of disability as a result of acquiring one or more physical, cognitive, or sensory impairments, health and fitness professionals must redirect part of their efforts at providing accessible facilities, programs, and services to members in their community who have a disability. The participation of younger and older individuals with disabilities in physical activity must become one of the highest priorities for public and private organizations responsible for improving the health of every citizen in this nation.
To access this publication, go to http://www.presidentschallenge.org/misc/news_research/research_digests/june2008.pdf
Challenged America Hoists Sails for Recently Injured Vets, September 28-October 3, 2008, San Diego, CA
San Diego's Challenged America program will hoist its sails this month at the first National Summer Sports Clinic (SSC) hosted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Clinic participants will include recently injured veterans with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, blindness, amputation, various neurological conditions, burn injuries, psychological trauma, and other recent disabilities.
For additional information, visit http://www.summersportsclinic.va.gov, or contact Urban Miyares at Port@ChalengedAmerica.org or (619) 594-8805, or visit http://www.ChallengedAmerica.org.
Obstacle Course: Inaccessibility of Athletic Centers, Athletic Business, September 2008
Though most recreation facilities meet the legal requirements associated with accessibility, few address the actual needs of people with disabilities. To read this article written by Corey Fairbanks, an architect in Denver, Colorado, go to http://www.athleticbusiness.com/articles/article.aspx?articleid=1851&zoneid=10.