Regular exercise is a recipe for staying healthy and lively as you age. But sometimes it is not that easy. Many older adults have an injury, illness, health condition, or disability that makes activities difficult, if not seemingly unimaginable. If you might be on this category, adaptive sports generally is a welcome opportunity.
“But thanks to modern technology and supporting infrastructure, people can find almost any sport or activity that accommodates their abilities and helps them stay active.”
Wide range of selections
Adapted sports are competitive or recreational sports or activities for individuals with disabilities or physical limitations. They often run parallel to traditional efforts but are modified to fulfill a person's needs.
Name an indoor, outdoor, or seasonal activity, and there is probability there's an adapted version. Popular selections include cycling, skiing, archery, kayaking, rowing, tennis, bowling, swimming, basketball and golf. (In 2022, the US Golf Association launched the inaugural US Adaptive Open as its fifteenth national championship.)
Being lively is much more essential for individuals with disabilities or limitations. “Lack of regular exercise greatly increases their risk of heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes and cancer,” says Dr. Blewett.
Adaptive sports can even support emotional health. June 1, 2019 Review of Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Studies have found that folks who take part in adaptive sports and activities report significantly higher overall health, a better quality of life, and a more satisfying social life.
Find your activity.
The kind of adaptive sport or activity you select relies on your interests and activity level, says Dr. Blewett. Here are some strategies to aid you find your best fit.
Focus in your strengths. Don't deal with what you possibly can't do, but deal with what you possibly can do. Is walking now not an option? Try power walking using climbing poles for support. Can't use your legs fully? Focus on upper body activities resembling swimming or kayaking.
Discover what you enjoy. “There's a good chance that your favorite activities can be adjusted to fit your needs,” says Dr. Blewett. For example, certain golf carts can aid you get up and stabilize your body when swinging the club. In sled hockey, individuals with lower body mobility use sleds to skate across the ice. Recumbent bikes (three-wheeled bicycles that hold the rider in a seated or reclining position) help cyclists with balance problems or back problems.
Join a team. Many adaptive sports have organized team leagues with adjusted rules and formats, resembling wheelchair basketball and tennis, and “beep” baseball and kickball for the visually impaired. “It's a great way to raise awareness of your new endeavor and build a community with peers who have similar disabilities or limitations,” says Dr. Blewett. “Also, a little competition provides extra motivation to help you stay motivated.”
Try something latest. Use your situation as a chance to seek out a brand new interest or try something out of your comfort zone, resembling water skiing, windsurfing, horseback riding, or mountaineering.
“Adopting vigorous sports and activities can be physically and emotionally challenging, as it can feel like your disability has increased, but don't let that put you off,” says Dr. Bloitt. “Participating in adaptive sports is not a way to live less, but a way to live better.”
How to seek out adaptive sports in your area |
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