People who have disabilities shouldn't be afraid to play, enjoy nature, and have adventures sometimes. With the help of NDIS, disabled people can safely do things like skydiving, hiking, paddling, and caving. Although these adventures are good for your health and confidence, they can be very hard for people with disabilities. Playing sports outside is a great way to improve our health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Because of this, one of the most important jobs of outdoor sports organisers is to make disabled people feel as welcome as possible. NDIS and its providers work together to make sure that people with and without physical or sensory challenges can have outdoor adventures without any problems. This article will discuss outdoor activities NDIS participants can enjoy while exploring nature.
The top outdoor adventures for NDIS participants
Here are some adventures people with disabilities can enjoy while being outdoors.
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.
Conclusion
You can still enjoy the outdoors even if you have a disability. A lot of disabled people find that their interests are the same as those of their family and friends who are not disabled. Some even enjoy things that not everyone can do. You can still enjoy nature and get some fresh air in many ways, even if you use a wheelchair or are older and can't climb mountains.
At Care Assure, we support the idea that everyone should be able to enjoy outdoor activities. This encourages acceptance and a closer relationship with nature. We improve the lives of people with disabilities by ensuring they participate in outdoor adventures and see life in another dimension. This will help make the natural world more accessible for everyone. Put on your gear, go outside, and let's start an exciting trip of outdoor exploration and welcoming everyone.
You are at the right place if you need an NDIS provider that lets you have fun with natural resources!
Frequently asked questions
Who can take part in NDIS outdoor adventures?
A person who is registered with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can join the programme. Participants may have different kinds of disabilities and must meet the NDIS's requirements for qualifying. After this, your provider can now decide the best outdoor adventure for you.
What kinds of outdoor activities does the NDIS offer?
NDIS lets people choose from various outdoor activities that fit their needs and interests. Nature walks, hiking, camping trips, birdwatching, kayaking, rock climbing, and other outdoor sports may be part of these adventures.
Why would someone want to go on outdoor trips with NDIS?
Outdoor adventures can be good for you in many ways, like getting exercise, spending time in nature, improving your mental health, making new friends, boosting your confidence, and giving you the chance to learn new skills in a welcoming and helpful setting.
Will it cost me anything to take part in the programme?
The costs of taking part may change based on the type of journey, how long it lasts, and whether or not extra support services are needed. People who use the NDIS are encouraged to talk to their service provider about their funding choices and possible costs.
How do I get ready for an outdoor adventure?
Before going on outdoor outings, participants should ensure they have the right clothes, shoes, and medicines or gear they might need. Also, they should inform the programme organisers about their special needs and preferences to ensure they have a comfortable and enjoyable time.