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 socio-economic and accessibility challenges to maximize the benefits of adapted sports for this group, through joint actions involving civil society, government, and healthcare professionals.
Keywords:
Disabled Persons; Sports for People with Disabilities; Social Participation; Self-Help Devices; Occupational Therapy