Challenges and opportunities for physical activity among factory employees who are visually impaired

Introduction: Individuals who are visually impaired are known to be less physically active and to have higher obesity rates than the general population; both are stroke risk factors.

Objectives: To identify the economic, social and environmental challenges and opportunities for physical activity among individuals who are visually impaired. Methods: Mixed-methods were used to identify the challenges and opportunities. Ethnographic interviews were conducted with Industries for the Blind (IFB) employees and specialists working for Division of Services for the Blind. Focus group and survey questions were developed with input from specialists working in inclusive recreation, epidemiology, anthropology and information technology. Three focus groups of 5-7 employees, determined by time since vision loss (birth/early childhood; adult > five years, adult < 2 years), as well as a company wide web-based survey designed for use with adaptive technology, were held. Stroke risk screening data was collected from 159 of 315 employees.

Findings: Prevalence of obesity at IFB was 15% higher and diabetes and physical inactivity were 4 - 8% higher than among other local employees screened for stroke risk. Transport was the most often cited barrier to physical activity. Confidence and mobility may be determined by time since vision loss and the presence of supportive others.

Conclusion: Where visual impairment intersects with barriers experienced by all who want to be more active, provision must be made to create environments that increase accessibility and confidence. Fostering the community's reliance on supportive others by training peers to lead health promotion efforts may increase participation.