Assistive technology and occupational participation in adapted sports: perceptions of individuals with physical disabilities

Abstract

Introduction: The perception of individuals with physical disabilities regarding assistive technology influences their occupational participation in adapted sports. Despite its widespread use, there is a lack of awareness about the role it plays in the occupational participation of Para-athletes. Objective: To explore the perceptions of individuals with physical disabilities regarding the use of assistive technology in occupational participation in adapted sports. Methodology: A qualitative research was conducted, using a constructionist approach and a phenomenological design. Purposive sampling was employed. Data was obtained through the application of semi-structured interviews to four individuals with physical disabilities practicing adapted sports in Santiago, Chile. Content analysis was performed, considering the perceptions present in the collected messages from a hermeneutic perspective. Results: It is emphasized that assistive technology plays a crucial role in occupational participation in adapted sports. Additionally, various types of technologies used, experiences and perceptions in their use, socio-economic and access barriers, accessibility barriers, facilitators, and support in occupational participation, as well as the associated physical and psychological benefits, are identified. Conclusion: The importance of ensuring equitable access to assistive technology for the occupational participation of individuals with physical disabilities in adapted sports is emphasized. There is a need to address socioeconomic and accessibility challenges to maximize the benefits of adapted sports for this group, through joint actions involving civil society, government, and healthcare professionals.