Facilitators of and barriers to adaptive video gaming participation among individuals with physical disabilities

Abstract

Participation in leisure and recreational activities has been associated with improvements in quality of life and social relationships for individuals with physical disabilities. The purpose of this study was to determine the most frequent facilitators and barriers that individuals with physical disabilities experience, both when starting with adaptive video gaming and when maintaining participation. A self-administered survey was used to collect data from individuals who currently participate in adaptive gaming and included three sections: (1) Demographic Section, (2) Gamer Habits Section, and (3) Facilitators and Barriers to Adaptive Gaming Section. A total of 256 participants met inclusion criteria and completed the study survey. Family, friends, rehabilitation staff members, social media/YouTube, and peer support were found to play a role in facilitating the initiation of adaptive gaming participation. Common facilitators of adaptive gaming were fun/entertainment, stress relief/relaxation, and prior involvement in video gaming. Barriers to adaptive gaming participation were cost of equipment and difficulties with gameplay. Older age and greater severity of hand impairment were associated with experiencing a higher number of barriers (p < 0.01). Improving funding resources, game accessibility, and access to professional assistance for adaptive gaming may help overcome some of the commonly reported barriers in this study.

Keywords: adaptive gaming; assistive technology; barriers; facilitators; physical disability; video gaming.