VIDBE-Q 2025 Volume 70 Issue 4
often misunderstood and even more often underestimated. Yet, physical activity is
not an extra add-on; it is essential for quality of life and self-determination.
Physical activity is a cornerstone of personal health, independence, emotional well-
being, and quality of life for all people, regardless of sensory ability.
For individuals with visual impairment or deafblindness, engaging in sports
and physical activity is not only achievable—it is transformative. It promotes
independence, autonomy, builds confidence, and nurtures the ability to self-
advocate in moving through the world. Nevertheless, systemic barriers such as
inaccessible environments, negative attitudes, lack of trained instructors, and
societal misconceptions often inhibit full engagement. These difficulties are not
unique to the specific disability—they are inherent in a world not yet designed for
inclusivity of all people.
Why Movement Matters
The positive outcomes of physical activity are well-documented: improved
cardiovascular health, enhanced muscular strength, improve balance and
coordination, and minimize the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart
disease. For individuals with visual impairment or deafblindness, these benefits are
even greater. Physical activity along with sports and physical education can
improve spatial awareness, motor skills, reduce the risk of falls, and support mental
health by decreasing anxiety and depression. It also plays a crucial role in
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