By: Riley Van Eyck

Accessibility and inclusivity for people with mental and physical disabilities is an issue all over the world. Simple activities such as working out or playing sports can be impossible without adaptive equipment and accessible programs. It’s vitally important to increase accessibility and eliminate discrimination, in order to ensure the disabled lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

According to the article, “Accessibility of Health Clubs for People with Mobility Disabilities and Visual Impairments,” 56% of disabled people report engaging in no physical activity. They suggest the causes are barriers in the environment, architecture, policies, and social discrimination. Among those most affected are children. In a clinical report, written by the American Academy of Pediatrics, almost 20% of children in the United States lack the ability to actively participate in recreation which subsequently affects their mental well-being. Schools are exempting those with disabilities from physical education requirements rather than adapting to their limitations, and that is fueling the problem for disabled people of all ages.

In the clinical report mentioned above, events for disabled individuals, such as, the Special Olympics, were established around 1950. This created a platform for disabled people to actively practice and engage in recreational activities, Unfortunately, it still promoted a divide between those with and without disabilities. Around 1989, the need for inclusive accessible recreation was recognized. A study in the article, “Integrated Wilderness Adventure: Effects on Personal and Lifestyle Traits of Persons With and Without Disabilities,” measured how integrated outdoor programs promote self-growth and therapeutic effects. The goal was to normalize participation in recreation for everyone and emphasize the importance of equal opportunities. It wasn’t until 1990 that the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed by Congress and focus was put on bettering the lives of those with disabilities.

Although, most people support compliancy, there are many who ignore the needs of those who aren’t able-bodied and overlook the importance of inclusivity. Specifically, business owners and local governments, choose to work around ADA Title II compliancy laws to avoid altering their business or encountering financial and administrative problems. Recreation is one area that is difficult to make accessible, but it’s not impossible. Advancements in accessible facilities and adaptive equipment are being made every day, but there’s still a long way to go before everyone has the equal opportunity to partake in recreation.