Digital Commons Network^™

Comparison Of Functional Movement Screen And Balance Assessments After 6-Week Corrective Exercise Programs Developed For Deaf And Hard-Of-Hearing Individuals, Pelin Aksen, Pamela Beach, Lauren Lieberman, Melanie Perreault, Sean Flanagan

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

The aim of this study was to compare Functional Movement Score (FMS) and balance assessments after 6-week corrective exercise programs developed for hard-of-hearing and Deaf Individuals. 17 participants studying at Rochester Institute of Technology National Technical Institute for the Deaf with a total FMS score of 14 and above were divided into two groups as experimental (EG) (21.30±2.31 years) and control (CG) (27.71±10.29 years). Body mass index (BMI) was assessed using the FMS Test kit for FMS analysis, and balance was assessed using the Biodex balance device. The 6-week corrective exercise program significantly improved body composition, movement quality, and balance …

The Relationship Between Weight Stigma And Exercise Avoidance: Exploring The Role Of Internalized Weight Stigma And Social Anxiety, Qingqing Li, Yun Li

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction Appearance-related and weight-related stigma have been identified as factors influencing an individual’s engagement in physical activities and exercise. However, the social-psychological mechanisms underlying the avoidance of these activities remain insufficiently explored. This study aims to investigate the impact of weight stigma on exercise avoidance behaviors among university students and examine the mediating roles of internalized weight stigma and social anxiety.

Methodology The study recruited 1,397 Chinese university students (ages 17-25) through an online survey, assessing their perceptions of weight stigma, internalized weight stigma, social anxiety, and exercise avoidance behaviors. A chained mediation analysis was conducted using the PROCESS macro …

Applicability Of Standardized Physical Fitness Test In Schools For Children With Special Education Needs In Latvia, Aija Klavina, Zinta Galeja, Edgars Ozols, Rihards Ansons

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

In the framework of the state research project (nr. VPP-IZM-Sports-2023/1-0001)

The applicability of EUROFIT of children with different special education needs (SEN) (mild intellectual (ID), visual impairment (VD), physical (PD), hearing disability (HD)). This study aimed to explore the physical fitness level across the four groups of SEN and compare it with typically developing children (CG). Results are based on the fitness measurement data of about 180 children with disability (100 with ID, 15 with VI, 30 with PD, 30 with HD average age: 14.20 SD = 2.27 years, 100 in CG with average age 13.95 (SD = 1.37)). Based …

Beyond The Court: The Support System Of Singaporean Wheelchair Rugby, Daniel W.H. Seah Mr, Heng Yeow Yap Dr, Jernice S.Y. Tan Dr

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

This study examines the support environment for parasport in Singapore, focusing on the Wheelchair Rugby Association of Singapore (WRAS). The research aims to identify the key factors influencing participation and development in parasport, as well as to uncover opportunities for improvement. A qualitative research approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews, was employed to gather insights from eight key stakeholders, including athletes, caregivers, and volunteers. Key findings revealed positive perceptions regarding accessibility to facilities and equipment, volunteer cohesion and expertise, and public engagement efforts. However, areas for improvement were identified, including the need for increased public awareness and education, a robust development framework …

Boccia For Participants With Cvi (Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment), Jane D. Blaine Ms

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

This program was designed to engage participants with a cortical/cerebral visual impairment in physical activity. We will explore ways to decrease distractions in the environment, use preferred colours/shiny items to motivate movement, and use equipment which is easy to grasp and manipulate.

Program objectives include

• Assessing the potential range of motion of a participant through light physical activity and movement exploration through gentle warmup and stretching, and light parachute activities.
• Exploring ways to propel a ball using different sizes, textures and throwing implements. Throwing, kicking, and propelling with any part of the body. Exploring a range of sizes and textures …

Building Physical Literacy: The Playshop Approach For Parents Of Children With Intellectual Disabilities, Hayley Kavanagh, Sarah Meegan, Valerie Carson, Nathan Gavigan, Morgan Potter, Mika Manninen

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction

Parents play a pivotal role in fostering children’s physical literacy (PL) and fundamental movement skill (FMS) development. However, many parents lack the knowledge and confidence to implement activities that nurture their child’s PL at home. This study explored the impact of a parent-focused PL intervention (the PLAYshop), on improving the knowledge and confidence of parents (control n = 25, intervention n = 36, 34% males, mean age 47.61 ± 18.95) of children with intellectual disabilities (CwID). Aligning with the conference theme, ‘Creating New Opportunities to Thrive,’ and supporting SDG 3, Health and Wellbeing, this research highlights how empowering parents …

Dietary Intake, Body Composition Analysis, Muscle Soreness, Fatigue, Mental Stress, Sleep Patterns And Alertness Observance In Jordanian Paralympic Athletes, Omar Suleiman Hindawi Prof., Tamara Mohammad Alhalaiqah Msc, Mohammad Hassan Abualtaieb Prof.

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction Jordanian Paralympic (Para) athletes are a small and rare category among Jordanian athletes; their nutrition and wellness (Sleep quality, fatigue, stress, mental health) are essential to their performance. This research aims to assess Jordanian Paralympic athletes' nutritional status, body components, muscle Soreness, fatigue, mental stress, sleep patterns, and alertness.

Methodology

A descriptive case series study will be conducted with 74 participants, adult male and female Jordanian Paralympic athletes who are at age of 18 years and above and diagnosed with different disabilities. Three 24-hour dietary recalls (24HR) will be collected (2 training days, 1 resting day). Moreover, the Hooper …

Effects Of Short-Term Physical Exercise On Stress Biomarker And Mental Health Issues In Adolescents With Adhd: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Sima Dastamooz Phd, Cindy H.P. Sit Phd, Kelly P. Arbour-Nicitopoulos Phd, Rainbow T. H. Ho Phd, Stephen H.S. Wong Phd, Juanita Cheung Phd

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

No abstract provided.

Enhancing Physical Activity Participation Among Adults With Visual Impairments Through A Student-Led Exercise Program, Klára Daďová, Jitka Vařeková, Markéta Křivánková

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Physical activity is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle for the prevention of chronic diseases. However, individuals with visual impairments frequently encounter substantial obstacles to regular exercise, predominantly due to the necessity for assistance with specific activities. This paper presents the findings of an innovative project undertaken by students of Adapted Physical Education and Sport for People with Special Needs, who developed and implemented an eight-week health-oriented exercise programme specifically designed for adults with visual impairments. The programme's concept, structured to accommodate the unique needs and limitations of the participants, will be elucidated in detail. This study employs qualitative …

Invalidity Rates Of Baseline Impact Concussion Assessments In High School Athletes With Disabilities, Kiera Glodowski, Troy Furutani, Nathan Murata, Allison Tsuchida

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Invalidity Rates of Baseline ImPACT Concussion Assessments in High School Athletes with Disabilities

Introduction

The Immediate Postconcussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) is the most common computerized concussion assessment tool (Dessy, 2017). Previous studies showed higher rates of invalid baselines in individuals with autism, learning disabilities (LD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (Maietta, 2021). Characteristics of these disabilities can resemble concussion symptoms which may complicate the evaluation process and diagnosis of concussion, a health concern in athletes (Harmon, 2013). This study aims to investigate invalidity rates of baseline ImPACT assessments among disability groups in high school athletes to explore its use …

Helpdesk Exercise And Sports: Empowering Independence In Physical Activity For People With A Visual Impairment, Wilbert Van Dorresteijn

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

The Helpdesk Exercise & Sports, an initiative from Royal Dutch Visio, is dedicated to enabling individuals with VI to participate in physical activities and sports as independently as possible. Our work bridges the gap between accessibility and autonomy by providing tailored guidance resources, and innovative solutions to empower people to overcome barriers and engage in physical activities that enhance their well-being and autonomy.

This presentation will outline the core mission and activities of our helpdesk, focusing on the diverse groups we assist, including individuals with VI, parents, teachers, trainers, sports clubs and local authorities. We will also share insights into …

Participant Insights On Fitness Program Implementation In An Underserved Community, Whitney N. Neal, Laurie A. Malone Phd

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction

Participation in physical activity for individuals with disabilities is often hindered by barriers across multiple levels of the socio-ecological model. To promote socioemotional and physical health in underserved communities, a two-part 6-week group fitness intervention was delivered to members of a local senior center: 1) group online fitness (LOF) and 2) active virtual reality gaming (VR). This study examined participant perspectives regarding implementation, specifically facilitators, barriers, and lessons learned.

Method

Participants included adults with disabilities and/or chronic health conditions from an underserved community. One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight of the 10 program participants. Interview questions were informed …

The Effective Use Of A Pre-Teaching Checklist For Physical Education For Children With Blindness, Low Vision, Or Deafblindness, Lauren J. Lieberman, Pamela Beach, Melanie Perreault, Ciara Murohy

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Students with visual impairments (VI) are often left out of physical education classes because they are not provided with appropriate accommodations and instructional strategies by the teacher. Pre-teaching is a recommended method of instruction wherein students with visual impairments are exposed to a lesson prior to whole class instruction. Pre-teaching can cover the court dimensions, equipment options, rules, scoring, terminology, modification options, and tactile instruction options. Teachers can use tactile boards to help with complete understanding of the court, field, or activity layout. However, only one research study has been conducted on the use of pre-teaching within the context of …

The Effect Of Participation In The Adapted Baseball Program On Visual Perception And Attention Of Adolescents With Developmental Disabilities, Seungeun Choi Ms., Hyundo Jun Mr., Yongho Lee Dr.

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Human movement involves synthesizing responses to environmental stimuli through sensory systems, with about 80% relying on visual information. Students with developmental disabilities often face learning failures due to delays in visual perception development, negatively impacting self-concept and overall growth. Reduced attention is cited as a key factor in these delays. This study aims to examine the effects of participation in an Adapted Baseball Program on visual perception and attention in Korean adolescents with developmental disabilities.

26 adolescents with developmental disabilities were recruited for the study and assigned to experimental group(n=13) and control group(n=13). Adapted Baseball Program was provided to experimental …

The Physical Fitness Of Youth With Special Educational Needs In Hungary Based On Netfit® Measurement In School Year 2023/2024, Katalin Tóthné Dr. Kälbli, Tamás Dr. Csányi, Alexandra Cselkó, Mónika Dr. Kaj

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Background

NETFIT^® a health-related, criterion-referenced physical fitness test battery is the compulsory PF assessment in grades 5-12 in Hungary. In 2016-2017 the Hungarian School Sport Federation adapted the battery to children with special educational needs (SEN). Since then, the physical fitness of youth with SEN has been assessed annually at national level.

Purpose

The aim of our presentation is to introduce the physical fitness of students with SEN based on NETFIT^® results of the school year 2023/2024 and to compare it with typically developing children (TDC).

Methods

In the school year 2023/2024, 4620 students (2980 boys and 1640 …

Together Rapid: Inclusive Football For People With Disabilities, Gabriel Mayr, Matias Costa, Margit Straka, Jürgen Kerber

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

The SK Rapid Special Needs Team (SNT) is an inclusive football program in partnership with the Sports Federation for the Disabled of Vienna (WBSV), designed to provide accessible and empowering sports opportunities for people with disabilities. The initiative currently engages 94 participants , with an average age of 21.5, including individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, deafness, visual or mental disabilities, and learning difficulties. The primary goals are to enhance physical health, social integration, and well-being through football, fostering a sense of belonging to the Community and empowerment.

The initiative includes training sessions, coaches clinics and an international festival promoting cultural …

Using Administrative Health Data To Explore Diabetes Rates In Special Olympics Participants In Ontario, Canada, Meghann Lloyd, Robert Balogh

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

No abstract provided.

The Journal Of Texas History

Journal of Texas History

Published by: The Alliance for Texas History in cooperation with the University of Texas at Arlington Vol. 1, No. 1 June 2025

Camp Abilities: An Educational Sports Camp For Children With Low Vision And Blindness: Perspectives Of Directors From Around The World, Lauren J. Lieberman, Ingi Por Einarsson, Valerie Caron, Ursula Barrett, Jane Blaine, Molly Armstrong

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Camp Abilities is an educational sports camp for children and youth with low vision and blindness. The first Camp Abilities was held in Brockport, NY in 1996, for one week overnight. Since 1996 the sports camp movement has expanded all over the world with over 28 Camp Abilities word-wide as well as many other similar programs. These camps vary in length, geography, and sports offered. What is consistent is the mission 1. To empower children and youth with low vision, blindness or deafblindness to be involved in sports, 2. To train future teachers to teach physical activity and sports, 3. …

Amplifying The Voices Of Students With Disabilities In Integrated Physical Education, Cathy Mckay, Maria Damewood

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the subjective experiences of students with disabilities and amplify their voices related to feelings of inclusion and belonging in integrated physical education (PE).

Methodology

Six students (5 male and 1 female), 13-17 years of age, with an IEP and receiving PE in an integrated setting were recruited from a local middle school. Students who were recruited were asked to draw “normal” and “ideal” days of PE. Next, students were interviewed to further understand and inquire about the drawings’ contents and feelings towards PE. Interviews were then transcribed. Interview transcriptions were coded …

Accessibility On Trails And The Experience Of Nature From The Perspective Of People With Physical Disabilities, Mey Van Munster, Gustavo Almeida Silva

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction Several barriers hinder access by people with physical disabilities (PWPD) to sports and leisure in natural environments, limiting their opportunities for interaction with nature (Munster, 2004). The research aimed to analyse the motivations, meanings and impressions resulting from incursions and experiences in natural scenarios, from the perspective of PWPD.

Methodology Under a qualitative approach, the sample of this study case consisted of four PWPD of all genders, and over 18 years of age. The intervention involved a visit to a waterfall located in the municipality of Brotas/SP - Brazil. The data collection procedures followed the steps: 1) Recognition of …

Analysis Of Brain Activity During Game-Based Aerobic Exercise In Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury, Kiara S. Todd, Edith Arrieta, Fatima Elias, Diana Vela, Taeyou Jung Phd

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction

Aerobic exercise is important for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) to prevent secondary health conditions and maintain or improve their health and functions in activities of daily living. Its benefits are well documented for cognitive functions, however limited research has been conducted in this population. The purpose of this study was to analyse brain activity during game-based aerobic exercise in individuals with SCI.

Methodology Thirteen adults with paraplegic SCI (ASIA Scale C-D) participated in this cross-sectional study that consisted of game-based and conventional modes of aerobic exercise, using a customized wheelchair treadmill (Wheely-X, Kangsters Inc., Seoul, Korea, 2024). …

Accessing Physical Activity: Perspectives Of Blind And Visually Impaired Emerging Adults, T N "Nicole" Kirk

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction Emerging adulthood (i.e., age 18-29) is an essential life phase for long-term development of health-related behaviors, including physical activity. However, little is known about the role of physical activity among blind and visually impaired emerging adults. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives and lived experiences of blind and visually impaired emerging adults within the context of physical activity.

Methodology Using an interpretive description approach, six blind and visually impaired adults (4 women, two men) aged 18-28 participated in semi-structured, individual interviews. Data analysis entailed a six-step thematic approach which, yielded three themes.

Results The …

Analysis Of Energy Expenditure During Game-Based Aerobic Exercise Among Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury, Jordan J. Arteaga, Remy J. Ortega, Elvin O. Garcia, Jesus D. Aguilar, Taeyou Jung Phd, Ethan Palache

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) demonstrate decreased total daily energy expenditure and cardiovascular fitness which is associated with an increased prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Integrating games into physical activity can make exercise enjoyable. Limited research investigated game applications in aerobic exercise for people with SCI. The purpose of our study was to analyze energy expenditure during game-based aerobic exercise in people with SCI.

Methodology

Thirteen individuals with SCI (ASIA C-D) participated in a cross-sectional study comparing two modes of aerobic exercise; game-based and conventional wheelchair treadmill training. A portable metabolic analyser and heat rate monitor were used to …

Attitudes Of Saudi Students Toward The Inclusion Of Students With Disabilities In Physical Education Classes, Zuhair Abdaladeem Al Salim

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

The purpose of this study was to examine typical students’ attitudes toward the inclusion of students with disabilities in physical education (PE) classes. The participants were between 10 – 16 years of age, and their grade level was from fifth grade to ninth grade in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia. The participants were 614 typical students in elementary and middle schools. Participants responded to Children’s Attitudes Toward Integrated Physical Education-Revised (CAIPE-R). The findings of this study indicated that female students had more positive attitudes toward the inclusion of students with disabilities in PE classes than male students, as well …

Beliefs And Experiences Of Latina Mothers Of Individuals With Developmental Disabilities Toward Dance As Physical Activity: A Qualitative Study, Nicole M. Montanez-Alicea, Luis Columna Phd

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction

Regular physical activity, including dance, is known to improve overall health and well-being, particularly for caregivers of individuals with disabilities (Champagne, 2024; Piercy et al., 2018). However, mothers of individuals with developmental disabilities often face challenges incorporating structured dance into their routines. This study aimed to explore Latina mothers' beliefs and experiences with dance, barriers and facilitators to dance participation, and their preferences for dance to help develop culturally tailored interventions.

Methodology

Situated within the theory of planned behavior (Ajzen, 1991), this descriptive-qualitative study recruited Latina mothers (N = 12) of individuals with Developmental Disabilities through disability advocacy groups. …

Analysis Of Brain Activity During Walking On Soft Uneven Surface Among Individuals Post-Stroke, Jongmin Lee, Kiara Todd, Mai Narasaki-Jara, Youngok Jung, Brenda Meza, Taeyou Jung

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction People post-stroke often experience difficulty in walking, which is compounded when navigating challenging surfaces, such as sandy beach or grassy fields. However, limited research has studied how the brain reacts when they walk and navigate such surfaces. The purpose of this study was to investigate brain activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during walking on soft uneven surface among individuals post-stroke.

Methodology Nine individuals post-stroke and ten age-matched controls participated in this cross-sectional study. Participants completed two trials of 20-second walking on two surfaces: a firm, even surface (laminated hallway floor) and a soft, uneven surface (memory-form mattress with …

Camp Abilities Brazil: Accessibility And Inclusion Of People With Visual Impairment, Maria Luiza Tanure Alves, Mey Van Munster, Joslei Viana Souza, José Júlio Gavião De Almeida

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction Disseminated worldwide, Camp Abilities consists of an educational sports camp developed to people with visual impairment (PVI), based on individualized support. This experience report aimed to discuss the repercussions of the fourth edition of Camp Abilities-Brazil, held in October 2024 at the Santa Cruz State University, in Ilheus-Bahia.

Methodology In addition to 12 experts on staff and 40 Physical Education undergraduate students, the event brought together 35 participants with blindness (n=26) and low vision (n=9), 22 males and 13 females, aged between 19 and 60 years old, from 13 cities in the interior of the state of Bahia. The …

Evaluating The Level Of Assistance Needed For Daily Activities In Children With Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Huan Richard Xu

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Objective

Evaluating daily assistance needs in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is essential to deliver individualized, adaptive care that promotes independence, supports caregivers, and enhances overall well-being. This study aimed to assess the degree of assistance required to perform typical daily activities in pediatric patients with SMA.

Methods

The data used in this study were obtained via a web-based cross-sectional survey. Parents of pediatric patients with SMA completed the proxy-reported SMAIS. Information about socioeconomic and health status was also obtained. Chi-squared test, ANOVA, and linear regression analysis was used to do the data analysis.

Results

A total of 842 …

Exploring Leisure Activity Interest, Participation, And Satisfaction In Visually Impaired Adults, Kathryn E. Creveling, Justin Haegele, Xihe Zhu

International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness

Introduction

Physical activity levels are low among Visually Impaired (VI) adults (Ackley et al., 2009; Haegele & Zhu,2022). Identifying the factors that influence PA engagement is essential to improving overall health and quality of life outcomes for this population. While several works examine barriers to PA participation for VI individuals, fewer works explore leisure interests and satisfaction, both factors which influence recurring participation and overall quality of life (Dattilo, 2015; Kim et al.2020). This cross-sectional study seeks to explore the relationships between leisure activity interests, participation, and satisfaction among VI adults in the U.S.

Methodology

VI adults were recruited to …