Abstract
This study explored the physical activity and recreational experiences of adults with severe physical disabilities who are members of a community-based program. Participants were two individuals with cerebral palsy (1M, 1F). Both participants were fully dependent on caregivers and used verbal and non-verbal communication modalities. The interviewer had worked with the community organization for three years. Participants were interviewed at multiple time-points to capture their experiences in three contexts: (a) home, (b) the community organization's adapted camping getaway, and (c) the organization's day centre. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze the interview data. The participants highlighted how the community organization provides an environment that supports personal freedom, a positive social context, and opportunities for engaging in recreational and leisure activities. These results provide insights about the impact of community-based programming on individuals with severe physical disabilities, which is of interest to family members, caregivers, and community organizations.
