The Assistive Technology Blog

It's summer! Everyone is thinking sun and surf, and here's a great organization who can make sure ALL MEANS ALL even in the good old summertime...

Infinitec.org http://www.infinitec.org/play/water/adaptivewatersports.htm is a joint effort of the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Chicago and United Cerebral Palsy Associations, Inc., Washington D.C. and offers materials and information on all kinds of AT--here's their take on summer sports:

Many people with disabilities find a new kind of freedom in water because of water's buoyancy; it reduces the person's weight by 10 percent and it's low-impact. Thanks to a boon in adapted sports technology, almost any sport can be adapted and water sports are often the easiest. One may use a sports wheelchair designed for sailing, swimming, and even adapted water-skiing. Enthusiasts may glide over blue waters on a mono-ski or saucer. Many terrific disabled sports organizations offer training and a lot of fun. Also, mainstream sports and recreation facilities are more accessible. (Usually consumers have to inquire or request certain access features, such as a hand-held shower or accessible locker room door, but start with an open mind—most facilities managers truly want to make things work, they just need a bit more instruction.)

Visit the site to see links to information about the following water sports and ideas about organizations to contact that support people with special needs:
Swimming and Aqua Fitness
Sailing
Scuba Diving
Fishing
Rowing, Canoeing and Kayaking
Waterskiing