Physical Activity and Recreation
Everyone, including people with disabilities, can enjoy the numerous physical, psychological, and social benefits of physical activity. According to the 2011 North Carolina Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), people with disabilities are less likely to engage in regular moderate physical activity than people without disabilities, yet they have a similar, and sometimes greater, need for health promotion and disease prevention opportunities. The NCODH has implemented several projects that are designed to enhance opportunities for persons with disabilities to engage in physical activity.
One way to encourage people to be physically active is by removing barriers to fitness opportunities and improving the accessibility of fitness facilities. NCODH has developed a community-centered training model based on the NCODH publication Removing Barriers to Health Clubs & Fitness Facilities: A Guide for Accommodating All Members, Including People with Disabilities and Older Adults. The goal is to create fitness environments that are accessible, safe, and supportive of persons of all abilities.
In recent years, public health has increasingly recognized the value of worksite health programs as a way to promote physical activity and healthy eating. NCODH has developed Work Healthy, Live Healthy, so that persons with disabilities who receive services through community rehabilitation programs will have access to important health opportunities. Work Healthy, Live Healthy combines environmental changes with health education and individual supports. Core activities include a consumer directed and staff supported wellness committee, time limited health education classes, regular opportunities for moderate physical activity, such as a walking club, and changes to vending selections. Work Healthy, Live Healthy is designed to encourage the workplace to become supportive of health and wellness for all. After link to class example For FREE technical assistance, resources and information, call 919-966-0865 or 919-966-0881.
