Date Presented 04/03/2025
This study explores exercise participation differences among disability types—cognition, vision, hearing, communication, and mobility. Findings highlight the need for tailored OT approaches to improve exercise access for all.
Primary Author and Speaker: Stephanie Kubiak
PURPOSE: This study examined how different types of disabilities affect adherence to aerobic and strength exercise guidelines, highlighting the implications for occupational therapy (OT). Disabilities impact 25% of the U.S. population, and understanding varied adherence patterns can inform tailored approaches in OT practice to address unique challenges and promote participation.
DESIGN AND METHOD: A secondary analysis of the 2022 National Health Interview Survey (N = 26,473) was conducted. Binary logistic regression was used to determine if disability status predicted meeting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention exercise recommendations. Subgroup analyses were performed for vision, hearing, cognitive, communication, and mobility impairments to identify differences across disability types.
RESULTS: The regression model was significant (χ2(8) = 14.4, p < .001). Individuals with disabilities were 61% less likely to meet exercise guidelines compared to those without disabilities. Only 7% of participants with a disability met aerobic and strength recommendations, versus 25% without. Subgroup analysis showed variability: the visual impairment group had the highest adherence at 13.3%, while the mobility impairment group had the lowest at 4.3%.
CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that exercise adherence among individuals with disabilities is not uniform, necessitating customized solutions. Occupational therapists can play a pivotal role by recognizing the unique needs of each subgroup and advocating for tailored interventions. Customized strategies, such as specific environmental modifications and adaptive techniques, are crucial for promoting accessibility and participation. This highlights the need for flexible, evidence-based practices that respond to diverse client needs, reinforcing occupational therapy's role in inclusive health promotion.
References
National Center for Health Statistics. (2023). National Health Interview Survey, 2022. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhis/index.htm
Martin Ginis, K. A., & West, C. R. (2020). From guidelines to practice: development and implementation of disability-specific physical activity guidelines. Disability and Rehabilitation, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2020.1757167
Martin Ginis, K. A., Ma, J. K., Latimer-Cheung, A. E., & Rimmer, J. H. (2016). A systematic review of review articles addressing factors related to physical activity participation among children and adults with physical disabilities. Health Psychology Review, 10(4), 478–494. https://doi.org/10.1080/17437199.2016.1198240
Washington Group on Disability Statistics. (2020). The Washington Group short set on functioning (WG-SS). United Nations Statistical Commission. https://www.washingtongroup-disability.com
