SLIDE 4 EHS320

Introduction to Adapted Physical Activity

Overview

Adapted Physical Activity (APA) is a unique and essential field that integrates multiple disciplines to enhance participation in physical activity for individuals with diverse needs, particularly those with disabilities. By understanding the core themes and principles associated with APA, it is possible to foster an inclusive environment that recognizes and celebrates individual differences. The visual representation accompanying this introduction highlights the global impact of APA, indicating its relevance across various cultural and geographical contexts.

Defining Adapted Physical Activity

Adapted physical activity (APA) is recognized as a cross-disciplinary body of knowledge that specifically addresses the complex interplay of impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions that many individuals face during physical activities. This definition underlines the importance of recognizing these challenges to develop strategies that promote inclusivity and equitable access to physical exercise and sports.

The Nature of Adapted Physical Activity

Characterization

APA serves as:

• A Service Delivery Profession: Professionals in this field are dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activities that are meaningful and enjoyable.

• An Academic Field of Study: Researchers and educators delve into the methodologies and practices that support the participation of persons with disabilities in various physical activities.

Key Principles:

1. Acceptance of Individual Differences: Each person has unique capabilities and preferences, which should be respected and incorporated into physical activity plans.

2. Advocacy for Access to Active Lifestyles and Sports: A commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for participation in all sports and recreational activities.

3. Promotion of Innovative and Cooperative Service Delivery: Encouraging collaboration among different stakeholders to enhance the quality and accessibility of APA programs,

4. Support and Empowerment: Providing the necessary tools and resources to individuals to help them thrive.

Fields of Involvement

Scope of APA

APA encompasses a wide array of fields, including but not limited to:

• Physical Education: Curriculum design and implementation for inclusive physical education.

• Sport: Development of adaptive sports to ensure participation of all athletes.

• Recreation and Leisure: Creating accessible recreational activities and spaces.

• Dance: Adapted dance programs that cater to various physical abilities.

• Creative Arts: Exploring the role of creative expression in physical activity.

• Nutrition: Recognizing the importance of dietary considerations in overall health and activity.

• Medicine and Rehabilitation: Collaboration with healthcare professionals to ensure holistic support for individuals with disabilities.

Adapting Activities

Definition and Principles

Adapting refers to modifying objectives, activities, and methods to effectively cater to participants' needs. This process is guided by ongoing research and programming developments aimed at increasing inclusivity for persons with disabilities (PWD). Strategies include individualized assessments, goal setting, and the use of specialized equipment.

Adapted Physical Education

Focus Area

Adapted Physical Education (APE) is a specialized sub-discipline of physical education specifically tailored for students with disabilities. APE programs are designed for individuals aged 3 to 21, ensuring they receive the necessary support to engage fully in physical education.

Sport Adaptation

Types of Sport Adaptation

• Adapted Sport: Tailoring traditional sports to meet the needs of athletes with disabilities, which may involve modifications in rules, equipment, or formats.

• Disability Sport: Sports specifically designed for athletes with disabilities, like the Paralympics and sports targeting specific conditions like Cerebral Palsy and visual impairments.

Goals of Adapted Physical Activity

Objectives

1. Ensure safe and successful participation of individuals of all abilities in physical activities.

2. Encourage lifelong engagement in physical activity and promote healthy lifestyles.

3. Enhance self-actualization and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential through fitness and sports.

Importance of Disability Awareness

Rationale

Approximately 15-20% of the global population lives with a disability (around 650 million people), with approximately 10% of the school-aged population (6-21 years) having a disability. Recent data indicates an increase in the incidence of disability, emphasizing the need for active inclusivity and adaptive measures due to health disparities among PWD.

Societal Shift

Disability Rights Movement

The disability rights movement has driven significant changes, leading to deinstitutionalization that allows individuals with disabilities to live, work, and engage in community settings. This shift reflects the efforts of advocacy for education, accessibility, and accommodation laws that support individuals with disabilities.

Disability Statistics in Massachusetts

Current Statistics

• Approximately 28.7% of U.S. adults live with a disability; this figure equates to 23% (1 in 4 adults) in Massachusetts.

• Breakdown of disability types includes mobility impairments, cognitive disabilities, independent living challenges, hearing impairments, vision impairments, and self-care constraints.

Special Education Statistics

Insight into Education

Among an estimated 68 million U.S. students aged 6 to 21 in 2012, around 5.7 million (8.4%) received special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Notably, disability types among students include Specific Learning Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, Speech and Language Impairments, Autism, etc.

Physical Activity by Disability Status

Guidelines Overview

Data indicates that adult physical activity rates vary significantly by disability status concerning meeting aerobic and muscle-strengthening guidelines, highlighting the need for tailored programs.

Comparative Activity Levels

Children with Disabilities

Participation rates in physical activity among children with disabilities are reportedly four times lower than those of their peers without disabilities, signaling urgent attention towards increasing their involvement in physical activities.

Global Guidelines on Physical Activity

WHO Recommendations

The World Health Organization recommends that children, adolescents, and adults with disabilities engage in regular physical activity to reap substantial health benefits, creating an imperative for accessible programs.

Health Risks

Health Outcomes

Adults with disabilities face a threefold increase in the likelihood of experiencing serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or cancer when compared to their non-disabled counterparts.

Access to Healthcare

Barriers

Many adults with disabilities encounter significant barriers to accessible healthcare, such as unmet needs due to financial burdens and a lack of routine check-ups, which can severely impact their overall health and wellness.

Role of EHS Students in APA

Contributions

• Advocacy: EHS students can promote physical activity for individuals of all abilities through awareness campaigns and outreach programs.

• Education: Informing peers and the community about the benefits of active lifestyles and the importance of inclusivity in physical activity.

• Direct Services: EHS students may engage in instructing individuals within inclusive settings, facilitating participation in adapted physical activities.

Professional Support

Roles and Responsibilities

Professionals in the field of APA engage in consultation with peers about best practices, identify resources for adaptable programs, and network proactively with organizations and professionals offering physical activities designed for diverse populations.