Current Students and Staff

// University News

25 Jun 2014

Study shows how inaccessible leisure facilities affect older people with sight loss

Older man bowling Copyright Thinkstock

Researchers from the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences have been involved in a ground-breaking research project looking at how older people with sight loss can engage in physical activity.

In interviews as part of the study, all participants said they felt a deep sense of loss at having to reduce their physical activity because of sight loss. They were aware of the important benefits of staying mobile but cited numerous barriers that excluded them. While health was a key factor, the lack of accessible facilities was a major block to them pursuing what they wanted – fitness, fun, social interaction and independence. 

Now Thomas Pocklington Trust, the sight loss charity who published the study, has called on leisure providers, local authorities and county sports partnerships to provide activities that are both sustainable and accessible for older people with sight loss. 

Read the press release for more.