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Abstract |
Nature experiences and outdoor recreation have numerous positive outcomes with important physical and mental health benefits for the individual. In various international and Swedish legislative proposals and governmental letters this is evident; public health and well-being must be supported, as well as outdoor recreation, and nature experiences for everyone. Some groups in society are nevertheless excluded. Different physical disabilities can be particularly challenging due to physical barriers in nature. It can also be a challenge to get to nature areas because of, for example, incomplete information, long distances, transportation, or individual ability. Lack of accessibility is still a crucial obstacle for people with disabilities to participate in outdoor recreation (Burns et al., 2009). A better understanding of the participation patterns and perceived constraints by people with disabilities is necessary if nature and outdoor recreation are going to become accessible and inclusive (Corazon et al., 2019). The project aims to understand factors that enable and hinder participation in outdoor activities for people with physical disabilities. In the context of Östersund municipality, Sweden, we discuss how people with physical disabilities perceive accessibility to nature, and analyse available information on websites. What prevents people from getting out into nature? What kind of barriers can be identified? What kind of information is needed and is it available? |
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