Series Part 3 of 4: Not All Disabilities Are Visible

In This Series: 1: Chronic Illness | 2: Dynamic Disabilities | 3: Outdoor Access | 4: A Day In The Life

Part 3: Why Accessible Outdoor Spaces Are Important

By: Sarah Rupp, Spoons of Salt

Studies have shown that spending just twenty minutes each day outdoors is good for our mental health. But getting outside with a disability can be a challenge. Stairways, narrow pathways, broken or uneven pavement, and intruding vegetation create barriers for people who use mobility aids or have vision disabilities.

At Spoons of Salt, we offer a variety of activities for people with various disabilities, such as hiking on ADA-accessible paved trails through the forest, birdwatching, kayaking, and more. Just being out in nature connects us to the greater world and being outdoors with a group creates a greater sense of community and belonging. When living with chronic illness, it is easy to forget we are more than our symptoms.

Birdwatching is one simple way to get out in nature no matter that you have mobility limitations. One study showed that simply hearing birdsong has a positive impact on mood, while noise pollution, like traffic sounds, negatively impacts our mood. Another study suggests that people who spend at least two hours per week in natural environments have a better sense of well-being compared to people with no contact with nature. Taking care of mental health is important for everyone, but especially those of us with chronic illness.

Besides birdsong, another benefit of being outdoors is enjoying natural light. Especially in winter months, natural light can improve symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder in days. Even major depression can be eased to some degree by natural light. Seeing natural light first thing in the morning regulates our sleep/wake cycles and helps us sleep better at night. Finally, spending time in nature fosters independence. Having accessible ways to enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking provides a sense of freedom. Being able to independently navigate and enjoy the outdoors is empowering. Because of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) everyone has the right to enjoy the natural world.

In This Series: Not All Disabilities Are Visible (4 parts)

Authors: Sarah Rupp and Chelsea Matherly, Spoons of Salt (SpoonsOfSalt.org)
Source: Southeast ADA Center (ADASoutheast.org)