Adapt Activities and Equipment
Adapted equipment and activity programs enable less able-bodied people to participate in activities they would otherwise
be unable to perform. This adaptation is particularly useful for those with significant disease and disability. There are adapted activity programs for almost every disability. For example, a person with back problems may use a recumbent bicycle or swim for aerobic activity; someone with arthritic knees and hips can use an upper-extremity ergometer. Adapted activity programs help elders redefine their own abilities, enabling them to remain active despite physical disabilities and comorbid illnesses. In addition, adapted activities enable elders to improve their self-efficacy, redressing the misconception that disability equals inactivity by providing more accessible activity options.