Physical activity, quality of life, and inclusion in disability support center contexts
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v84.119764Keywords:
Care institutions, persons with disabilities, physical activity, social inclusion, well-beingAbstract
Introduction: Physical activity has been widely associated with improvements in health and well-being; however, its relationship with quality of life among individuals with disabilities requires further analysis.
Objective: to analyze perceived quality of life in relation to physical activity among individuals with intellectual and/or physical disabilities attending support centers in Asturias and León (Spain).
Methodology: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional design was adopted, involving a sample of 143 participants recruited through Centers for Support and Integration and Specialized Care Centers. Data were collected using an ad hoc questionnaire composed of 23 items distributed across eight dimensions, and descriptive and comparative analyses were conducted.
Results: indicated generally high levels of perceived quality of life, particularly in emotional well-being, self-determination, personal development, and rights, whereas lower scores were observed in socio-sport inclusion. No significant differences were found according to gender, although significant differences emerged in relation to relationship status and region, especially in physical well-being, social relationships in sport, material well-being, and personal development.
Discussion: Physical activity enhanced quality of life and autonomy, although socio-sport inclusion remains limited beyond support centers, suggesting restricted participation in community settings.
Conclusions: physical activity constitutes a relevant socio-educational context that contributes to multiple dimensions of quality of life; however, further efforts are required to enhance inclusion in community-based settings and to design comprehensive, context-sensitive interventions that promote meaningful participation, autonomy, and social inclusion among individuals with disabilities.
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