Assessment and training for participation in adapted sports and recreation

1)Project Title: Assessment and training for participation in adapted sports and recreation 2)Brief Project Description: There is a lack of accessible facilities, equipment, support, and professional guidance for individuals with SCI who want to be involved in sports and recreation. Adapted sports and recreational activities often require customized equipment and specialized training, and these services are not reimbursed through insurance companies. This often leads to people not participating or using improper equipment, which puts them at risk for injuries, aggravating secondary conditions, and being unsuccessful in the activity. The project will address two areas: (1) people with SCI who have not been introduced to sports and recreation, and (2) people with SCI who are involved in sports and recreation but could benefit from further training, better positioning, and/or improved equipment to meet their needs. The same four-step assessment used for everyday AT will be implemented: (1) interview and needs assessment, (2) AT trials and recommendations, (3) AT positioning, and (4) AT training. One example includes assessing a person with a new SCI for his or her interests in sports and recreation; identifying equipment, such as a handcycle, and then trialing; fitting; and finally training the participant on how to use the handcycle. We have strong relationships with many community-based organizations that offer services for people with SCI participating in sports. These organizations provide programs and used adaptive sports equipment, but they do not have the resources or expertise to provide in-depth equipment assessments and training. Collaborations with these organizations will assist with recruitment of participants and also provide support once the program participants receive services. 3) Expected Outcomes: Our expected outcomes are to (1) implement a four-step process for improving the service delivery process of sports equipment for 20 people with SCI; (2) increase the number of people with SCI participating in sports and recreation through assessment, education, and training; and (3) improve the satisfaction and/or performance level of participants who already participate in sports or recreation through training and/or modifications to their equipment to improve positioning and sport performance. (4) Relevance to Neilsen Foundation Mission: This proposed project is innovative and relevant to the foundation's mission in that it will apply comprehensive assessment and training procedures to involve people with SCI in adapted sports or improve their involvement in adapted sports. Research has shown that participation in sports and recreation improves both emotional and physical well-being in persons with SCI. These improvements lead to greater overall life participation and satisfaction. (CHN: COandI chn:wdg)