Adapted equipment and activity programs enable less ablebodied
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.