Disability Rights Awareness Month

By Daniel Sauer

November was International Disability Rights Awareness Month.

The international theme proclaimed by the United Nations for this year is: “Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for all.”

Approximately 15 – 20% of the world’s population are persons with disability. There are many types of disabilities affecting a person’s movement, vision, hearing, thinking, remembering, learning, communication, mental health, and social relationship.  

Research suggests that exercise for persons with disability is even more important than for those without a disability.  Why? Well, did you know that conditions such as diabetes, obesity and chronic heart conditions have been proven to be up to 66% more likely in people with disability? Physical activity is essential to improve one’s quality of life.

Sedentary behaviour that is often associated with disability, leads to deconditioning and health risk. The problem is so specific that is described as Disability-Associated Low Energy Expenditure Deconditioning Syndrome. 

The impact of these chronic diseases can be reduced by Physical activity. Furthermore, there are many benefits to exercise. 

Health Benefits:

• Physical Activity has amplified importance for cognitive, emotional and social difficulties.
  • Psychological benefits such as enhanced self-perception through successful Physical Activity experiences.
  • Physical Activity can reduce stress, Pain, and depression. 
  • Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) become easier to do.

Social contact:

• Physical Activity can reduce the stigmatisation process and negative stereotypes.
  • Physical Activity can contribute to improving social status.
  • Social benefits as the nature of many sports activities leads to increased social integration, bonding and friendship.

Fun:

• Physical Activity leads to mood benefits.
  • Enjoyment through social interaction of both fitness staff and other participants.

Extended Benefits 

• Reduce anxiety
• Reduce feelings of stress
• Encourage clearer thinking
• Bring about a greater sense of calm
  
  

• Increase self-esteem
• Reduce risks of depression
• Improve sleep
• Improve one’s posture 
• Restore one’s abilities to an extent

“Focus on the ABILITY, not the disability”. 

For any questions, or to get started, contact us at any time and let us assist you in being your best selves!