Family Perception of Physical Activities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: Barriers and Facilitators

Abstract

The practice of physical activity is recommended for the entire population, including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. However, when considering certain groups, such as people with disabilities, the path to access is often filled with difficulties. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the barriers and facilitators to the practice of physical activities, based on the perception of family members by individuals with intellectual disabilities. The sample consisted of family members of participants in an extension project. An identification data sheet and a questionnaire adapted were used to analyze the reasons for not engaging in physical activity and the factors that do not hinder its practice. The results indicated that bad mood, lack of interest, lack of physical skills, and limited financial resources are barriers to physical activity. In contrast, factors such as work schedule, family commitments, household chores, lack of encouragement from family and/or friends, lack of financial resources, mild pain or discomfort, and lack of energy were cited as facilitators, meaning they do not hinder the practice of physical activities. Therefore, it is concluded that barriers and facilitators manifest in daily life, influencing and impacting the quality of life and health of people with disabilities. However, understanding these factors and seeking alternatives to minimize them require specific strategies for building a more inclusive society.