Participation in community-based physical activity: a qualitative study of the wants and needs of adults with cerebral palsy who use wheelchairs

PURPOSE: To explore the perspectives of adults with cerebral palsy (CP) who use wheelchairs, and their support providers in relation to what they want and need to participate in physical activity in their communities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The methodological approach to this qualitative study was interpretive description. Adults with CP who use wheelchairs (ACP-W) and Key Support Providers (KSP), were invited to participate. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, with inductive thematic analysis used to analyse data and to identify themes. RESULTS: Seven ACP-W and 5 KSP participated. Adults had a mean age of 28 years (SD 6). Seven themes were identified: (1) desire for a variety of physical activity options; (2) understanding of the diversity of ACP-W; (3) wanting to have a voice and be heard; (4) the need for information on physical activity options; (5) the need for accommodations to participate in physical activity; (6) the need for authentic physical activity experiences; and (7) the need for physically accessible and socially inclusive environments. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the importance of addressing individual needs and fostering inclusive environments - both physical and social - through coordinated action by physical activity providers, allied health professionals, community organisations, and policymakers to facilitate authentic participation in physical activity for ACP-W.