Physical Activity & People with Disabilities — A Qualitative Process and Outcome Pilot Evaluation of the Non-Profit Organization AccesSurf Hawai‘i

HAWAI‘I JOURNAL OF MEDICINE & PUBLIC HEALTH, 2019 · DOI: · Published: February 1, 2019

Simple Explanation

This study explores how AccesSurf Hawai'i, a non-profit, helps people with disabilities through ocean sports. It looks at the organization's processes, the outcomes for participants, and suggestions for improvement. The research involved a focus group of six participants with neurological conditions who regularly participate in AccesSurf events. The discussion was analyzed to understand their experiences and the impact of AccesSurf on their lives. The findings suggest that AccesSurf provides a positive environment and various physical activity opportunities, contributing to participants' physical, mental, and social well-being. Participants felt empowered, increased their physical activity, and developed athletic identities.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Six AccesSurf participants with neurological health conditions, aged 30-64

Evidence Level

Qualitative programmatic analysis using a focus group design

Key Findings

1
AccesSurf fosters a positive and supportive environment, enhancing participants' physical, mental, and social health.
2
Participants experienced immediate outcomes such as enjoyment and feeling free, along with long-term physical improvements like strength and flexibility.
3
AccesSurf empowers participants, leading to life-changing effects, including increased independence, confidence, and the development of athletic identities.

Research Summary

This study evaluates the process, outcomes, and recommendations of an aquatic program for individuals with disabilities in Hawai‘i. Participants reported physical improvements such as strength, endurance, flexibility, and bladder control. Mental improvements mentioned were lower anxiety and stress, greater self-confidence and independence. A comfortable environment and provision of a variety of opportunities for participants were identified as advantageous AccesSurf outputs, fostering progressive short- and long-term outcomes that result in life-changing effects.

Practical Implications

Program Design

Highlight the importance of creating accessible and inclusive programs to promote physical activity among people with disabilities.

Community Integration

Emphasize the role of adaptive sports in fostering community integration and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Psychological Well-being

Recognize the positive impact of adaptive sports on mental health, self-confidence, and overall well-being.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limits generalizability.
2
Participants were competitive surfers, potentially skewing results.
3
Researcher bias due to pre-existing collaboration with AccesSurf may have influenced findings.

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