Bending the Arc of Exercise and Recreation Technology Toward People with Disabilities

Publication date: Available online 4 June 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): James H. Rimmer, Byron Lai, Hui-Ju Young
Most of the published research on exercise and disability has focused on short-term efficacy studies targeting specific disability groups. These studies often employ grant-related or other financial resources to temporarily remove the many barriers that people with physical/mobility disability (PWD) experience when attempting to become physically active. In this commentary we explore how technology can be used to promote more sustainable physical activity outcomes in the home and community using a set of four overlapping domains: Access, Usability, Adherence, and Health and Function. Additionally, we describe how the order in which these domains should be addressed will vary based on the needs of the target group and the context of their environment. Finally, we provide examples of various types of technologies (e.g., hardware, software) that can support the 'after-life' of successful short-term exercise and rehabilitation trials among PWD who desire to self-manage their own health and maintain a regular and sustainable pattern of physical activity across their lifespan.



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