Recreation and leisure activities are important to the quality of life for all individuals. Through various activities, individuals have opportunities to improve their overall health, self-concept, develop social skills and become part of a small community group. With the emphasis on including individuals with disabilities and good health within the community, it is important that all individuals are provided with this opportunity. Summer programs to include students with a diagnosed disability are becoming more accessible and available. Parents oftentimes look for opportunities for their children during the summer months, either in the forms of day, overnight camps or enrichment type activities. While many camps and summer programs exist specifically for students with a diagnosed disability, there are programs that are more inclusive and provide specific accommodations to assure successful inclusion of all types of children. Public institutions and entities are required by law to make summer programs available to all children. This paper will present some concrete steps to help ensure that all students, including students with disabilities, can, to the maximum extent appropriate, participate in the summer camp programs.
Physical Activity Guidelines (PAG) offer suggestions for all people to be active. Whether a beginner or seasoned athlete, the PAG directs the older adult to cautiously and comfortably become active. With obesity rates rising amongst all age groups, older adults can combat obesity by becoming active in the Senior Olympics Games. Athletes who are at least 50 years old can dedicate their skills to play and compete in local district games in the even-year. This earns them the advancement to qualify to the national games the odd-year. Various reasons to participate include social interaction, fun, learning new skills, shared family time and competition. Research has expanded to measure cardiovascular endurance and bone health for the participating senior adults. Research studies provide a strong case for being active and emphasize how physical activity can improve balance and injury prevention. When an older adult commits to an individual sport or team, he/she can play for not only competition but also for enjoyment.
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