Evaluating the Needs of Families Raising Children With and Without Disabilities: Focus on Physical Activity

Abstract

ABSTRACT More than 10% of children in Ontario have an additional need that may influence long-term lifestyle patterns, including physical activity (PA). This study sought to assess the status of PA as well as the barriers to and facilitators of PA for families in southwestern Ontario raising children with and without disabilities. Complete survey data were collected for 128 families for this study. Data were analysed using a series of statistical tests such as Mann-Whitney U tests, chi square tests for homogeneity, and descriptive analysis. Compared to families raising typically-developing children, families raising disabled children reported reduced enjoyment from PA, were more likely to report programs as too expensive, were more likely to report their PA needs were not met in the region, and placed more importance on inclusive PA. Further, families raising disabled children were less likely to report benefits of PA, including physical fitness, sense of identity, and self-esteem, and were more likely to report negatives associated with PA, including lack of self-esteem, social anxiety, feeling inadequate, and concerns with body image. These results point to the importance of developing inclusive and affordable programming in the region to enhance PA enjoyment for all participants, particularly those with disabilities.