Recreational physical activity experiences among guatemalan families with children with visual impairments

Luis Columna, Margarita Fernández-Vivó, Lauren Lieberman, Katrina Arndt

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Nationwide research indicates that children with visual impairment have limited participation in recreational and sport activities than their peers. This is due in part to the lack of recreational opportunities and facilities, as well as a lack of awareness by parents of how and where their children can participate. The purpose of the current study was to explore the experiences of Latino families of children with visual impairments living in Guatemala regarding physical recreation. Participants were Latino parents (N = 13) who have children with visual impairments recruited from a sport camp. Methods: Qualitative data were gathered through one-on-one interviews that were transcribed and analyzed through a constant comparative analysis. Results: Participating Latino families who resided in Guatemala City participated at least once a month in low budget recreational activities with their children with visual impairments. Activities were mostly done in local surroundings and led mainly by their mother. Benefits identified by the participants related to relaxation, socialization, and sense of independence, with minimal mention of health related benefits. Conclusions: There is a need to disseminate information to the Latino community with children with visual impairments regarding the multiple benefits that arise from being involved in recreational physical activities.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1119-1127
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health
Volume12
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 19 2015

Keywords

  • Physical activity
  • Physical recreation
  • Visual impairments

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
  • Epidemiology
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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