Inclusion as a Facilitator of Social and Physical Activity for People with Physical Disabilities

Kayla Korolek, Kirsten Ward, Heather Lamb, Christopher B. McBride, Katherine Bailey and Chelsea Pelletier ()
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Kayla Korolek: School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
Kirsten Ward: School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
Heather Lamb: Spinal Cord Injury BC, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B8, Canada
Christopher B. McBride: Spinal Cord Injury BC, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B8, Canada
Katherine Bailey: School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
Chelsea Pelletier: School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada

Disabilities, 2025, vol. 5, issue 3, 1-14

Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore the perceived relationship between inclusion and participation in social and physical activities for people with physical disabilities. In partnership with a local disability-focused non-profit organization, we completed semi-structured interviews with 12 individuals with physical disabilities. Interview transcripts were analysed using an inductive thematic approach considering the social–ecological model and quality participation framework for people with disabilities. We developed three themes to describe the relationship between inclusion and participation in social and physical activities: physical accessibility of spaces and places, advocates are needed to share knowledge, and social inclusion and social/physical activities influence each other. Participants discussed the facilitating role of social inclusion on physical and social activities and the bi-directional relationship between inclusion and community participation. Fostering social inclusion through increased accessibility, education, and awareness at the community or program level can facilitate full community participation for people with physical disabilities.

Keywords: exercise; physical activity; disability; inclusion; participation; disabled (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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