Explaining Physical Activity in Children with Visual Impairments: A Family Systems Approach

Quantitative findings revealed varied amounts of physical activity; younger children were more active than older participants and themes from qualitative interviews of caregivers and children that explained physical activity included transportation, family member involvement, safety, and time.

Abstract

Using a mixed design this study explored physical activity in children with visual impairments from a family perspective. Quantitative findings revealed varied amounts of physical activity; younger children were more active than older participants. Further, parents were involved in moderate to vigorous physical activity 0% to 21% of the time when their child with a visual impairment was active at this level. Sibling physical activity at moderate to vigorous levels occurred 11% to 53% of the time when the child with a visual impairment was active. Themes from qualitative interviews of caregivers and children that explained physical activity included transportation, family member involvement, safety, and time.