Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
essential strategy in wheelchair design in developing countries because it not only keeps
the costs low, but it also ensures that the chair will be locally maintained (Pfaelzer and
Krizack 2000). The corresponding local labor cost was also much lower relative to devel-
oped countries, and the combination with local materials resulted in a wheelchair design
that cost less than 20% of similar equipment in the United States. It has been advocated
that the cost of technology should not be a hindrance for individuals with disability to
take part in sports and physical activity (Sport and Development 2011). Essentially, projects
such as this one need to be pursued to enhance the participation of individuals with dis-
abilities from less developed nations, leading toward the ideal of “sport for all.”
19.5 Conclusions
Sport represents one form of physical activity, and among individuals with disabilities,
this has been facilitated by adaptation strategies. Disability sport continues to grow in
terms of both participation and competition. Such positive change appears to be dynamic,
as methods, strategies, and technologies continue to evolve from research findings.
Summary of the Chapter
This chapter initiated the discussion on methods and technologies that facilitate acces-
sible sport through self-efficacy theories that provide the motivation for enabling sports
participation for all. The proposition that adapted physical activity (APA) programs sets
up the stage for making PA participation possible for everyone was developed. Diverse
forms of APA have been documented to have beneficial effects among individuals with
disabilities, and sports activities appear to be an important form of PA. The wide extent of
sports participation among individuals with disabilities is evident in the Special Olympics
and Paralympics.
Such prestigious status of sports for individuals with disabilities has generated a corre-
sponding body of research that has started to move towards evidence-based practice. The
inherent competitive nature of sports has also been evident, consequently resulting in the
use of technology to address evolving demands of athletes with disabilities. While it appears
that PA is indeed for everyone, and is achieved through sports as supported by technology,
further research is desired to enhance different parameters of the current status.
References
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