Exploring the accessibility of leisure facilities in Munster for people with physical disabilities

Hannon, Bríd

Exploring the accessibility of leisure facilities in Munster for people with physical disabilities

Files

2014_BridHannon.pdf(1.06 MB)

Published Version

Date

2014-05-09

Authors

Hannon, Bríd

Publisher

Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork

Abstract

There are numerous benefits associated with physical exercise for people with physical disabilities. However they remain a largely inactive group. The purpose of this study was to identify various physical, attitudinal and policy based barriers and facilitators associated with engagement in physical activity for people with physical disabilities within the setting of leisure and fitness facilities in the Munster region. A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using online questionnaires. The questionnaire examined facilities physical access, ascertained what equipment and policies the centre had and leisure and fitness professionals attitudes and training in relation to people with physical disabilities. Data were collected from thirty leisure and fitness professionals. The majority of facilities in the study had accessible features pertaining to parking areas, changing rooms and showers. Most facilities did not have automatic entrance doors and had limited availability of dual-use exercise equipment. The majority of facilities do not charge personal assistants. A minority of respondents reported that guide dogs were not permitted on the premises. Lack of specific training in disability awareness was also identified as a common barrier. In addition very few facilities included people with disabilities as a target-market group. Findings from this preliminary study provide future directions for further research into the accessibility of Irish leisure and fitness facilities. Through a combined individualised and population approach, Occupational Therapists have a significant role in advocating for equal access to facilities, and for the enablement of people to engage in meaningful occupations that contribute positively to health and wellbeing.

Keywords

Accessibility , Leisure and fitness facilities , Barriers to participation

Citation

Hannon, B. (2014) Exploring the accessibility of leisure facilities in Munster for people with physical disabilities. Cork: Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork.