Exploring Nature: Outdoor Adventures with NDIS

1. Hiking

Going hiking in Australia is a great way to get close to nature; now, people with disabilities can do it without any problems. You can enjoy the peace of the woods and be amazed by the views from hiking trails that were thoughtfully built to work with mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers. Giving yourself a chance to connect with nature is more than just going for a walk.

2. Water sports

Everyone enjoys water sports, and adaptive water sports programmes have allowed people with disabilities to join the fun. Specially made equipment and skilled teachers make adaptive rowing, canoeing, and kayaking possible. This creates an inclusive environment and encourages people to live an active life. The water is now a place where everyone can play without any rules.

3. Gardening

If people with disabilities keep thinking about the things they used to be able to do, they might become depressed and unhappy with life. Gardening can help disabled people feel better about themselves and give them a new purpose. With the help of accessible gardening tools, many people who used to not be able to garden because of a disability can now do it in a regular garden space. You can also find a spot that people in wheelchairs can get to.

4. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is always a fun activity, and the summer is no exception. It might be scary to go into parks, forests, and paths by yourself if you use a wheelchair, are blind or deaf, have a long-term illness, or identify as neurodiverse. Tinted glasses or a magnifying glass might help if you have trouble seeing. Low-magnification stabilised binoculars with hand grips or other tools may also be helpful for people who have trouble moving around.

5. Painting nature

Being outside is great because you can find peace and beauty in places you wouldn't expect to find them. Take a moment to draw or paint what you see if you're having trouble seeing or understanding what's happening around you. It's not necessary to be an artist to do this. The point is to focus on making something and let your touch, smell, and sound lead you. Discuss what you see, feel, and smell when you draw with a friend or family member.

6. Dancing and listening to music

Dancing and singing together is a great way to have fun with their friends. What else can bring people together besides moving to beautiful music? People with disabilities may not be able to move their whole bodies, but what they can move still makes them happy. The happy dance moves and singing voices made them feel good and energised.

7. Accessible camping

Everyone, even a child with cerebral palsy, can have a great time camping. Camping is a better natural time than an hour or a day there. There are rules and instructions for making outdoor activities, like camping, accessible. Some of these are ensuring plenty of room for movement, combining accessible campsites with regular campsites, ensuring tent platforms don't slope, ensuring enough parking and more. Check out our blog on Accessibility in Public Spaces to learn more on locations that are perfect for you.

8. Walks

Take time to enjoy the beauty of nature by going for walks. Look for parks and trails that are easy to get to and have smooth roads, benches, and bathrooms that are easy to get to. Enjoy the peace of the outdoors by taking in the smells of the forest and listening to the birds.

9. Wheelchair tennis or basketball

Take part in wheelchair basketball or tennis to get your competitive juices going. These adaptive games let people work together, improve their skills, and compete in a friendly way. Join leagues or recreational programmes in your area to meet other people who love these fast-paced games as much as you do.