Finding fun and engaging activities for people with disabilities can make a huge difference in their well-being, social connections, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s creative pursuits, social outings, or relaxing sensory experiences, the right activity can provide joy, stimulation, and a sense of achievement.
This guide explores various accessible activities, from adaptive sports to virtual reality experiences, highlighting how each one can be tailored to different needs. Whether you’re planning for yourself, a loved one, or someone you support, these ideas can help create meaningful and enjoyable experiences for people of all abilities.
Choosing the right activities
Disabilities are not one-size-fits-all, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another.
When planning activities, it’s important to consider individual needs, abilities, and preferences.
For example, someone with a physical disability may need adaptations for mobility, such as wheelchair-accessible spaces or seated exercise options. Check out our guide on how to tell if a space is accessible and inclusive.
Meanwhile, a person with an intellectual disability may benefit from structured, simple activities with clear instructions and sensory engagement.
By tailoring activities to the person rather than the disability itself, you can create more inclusive and enjoyable experiences that support their well-being and independence.
20 activity ideas for people with disabilities
Music Therapy
Music has a way of bringing people together. It can lift your mood while providing a creative outlet. Whether it’s listening to a favourite playlist, learning an instrument, or joining a drumming circle, there are music therapy options for everyone. You can also consider adaptive instruments and apps, which make music even more accessible for people with disabilities.
Seated Exercise Class / Adapted Sports
Staying active isn’t just about fitness — it’s about feeling good, staying mobile, and having fun. Seated yoga, wheelchair basketball, and aqua therapy are just a few examples of adapted activities that cater to different abilities. Many community centres offer inclusive classes designed for all fitness levels. Whether it’s a gentle stretch or a competitive game, movement in any form can boost confidence and overall well-being.
Accessible Video Games
Video games can offer an interactive world of adventure, strategy, and social connection. By using accessible controllers, voice commands, and customisable settings, gaming has become more inclusive recently. Whether playing solo, competing online, or exploring open-world games, there’s a fun game for every interest and ability.
Gardening
Gardening is a sensory-rich activity that nurtures both plants and the soul. Feeling the soil, smelling fresh herbs, and watching something grow can be incredibly rewarding. Raised garden beds, adaptive tools, and indoor plant care make it accessible for those with mobility challenges. Tending to a small herb garden or simply enjoying the fresh air in a community garden provides a great way to connect with nature.
Meditation
A few moments of mindfulness can work wonders for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Meditation doesn’t have to mean sitting still—guided breathing exercises, sound therapy, or even mindful movement can help create a sense of calm. For those with sensory sensitivities, soft lighting, gentle music, or weighted blankets can enhance the experience. It’s all about finding a method that works best for the individual.
Sensory Play
Sensory play isn’t just for kids — it’s a fantastic way to engage the senses and promote relaxation for people of all ages. Think about activities like kinetic sand, water beads, scented play-dough, or textured fabrics. Some people find comfort in weighted blankets or fidget toys, while others enjoy calming light displays or essential oils. The goal is to create a safe, enjoyable experience that stimulates the senses positively.
Art and Craft
Creativity knows no boundaries, and art is one of the best ways to express thoughts and emotions. Whether it’s painting, sculpting, or making collages, there’s no right or wrong way to create. Adaptive tools like grip-friendly brushes or digital drawing apps can make it easier for those with limited dexterity. Art therapy can also be a great way to relax, process emotions, and have fun in the process.
Walking Group
Getting outside for a walk — whether it’s a short, accessible trail or a stroll around the block — offers both physical and social benefits. Fresh air, a change of scenery, and light movement can do wonders for mental well-being. Joining a walking group adds a social element, creating opportunities to meet new people while staying active. For those with mobility challenges, wheelchair-friendly paths or indoor walking tracks can help with accessibility.
Local Library
Libraries are more than just books — they’re community hubs filled with opportunities for learning and connection. Many offer audiobooks, large-print materials, adaptive technology, and accessible seating. Some also run inclusive programs like storytelling sessions, book clubs, or creative workshops. Whether browsing, listening, or simply enjoying a quiet space, libraries provide a welcoming environment for everyone.
Board Games
Board games are a great way to encourage social interaction, strategy, and fun. From classic favourites like chess and Uno to tactile and adaptive games designed for different abilities, there’s something for everyone. Many games now come with accessible features like larger print, braille markings, or voice-assisted options, making them more inclusive than ever. The best part? It’s all about enjoying the game, not just winning.
Cooking and Baking
Cooking engages multiple senses — smelling fresh ingredients, feeling different textures, and, of course, tasting the final result. There are plenty of ways of improving accessibility in the kitchen as well, from using simple no-bake recipes, to offering adaptive kitchen tools, or step-by-step cooking classes. It’s a great way to build independence, learn new skills, and share delicious meals with friends and family.
Puzzles
Puzzles are a fantastic way to stimulate the brain and improve problem-solving skills. Consider jigsaw puzzles, word searches or logic games, and look for large-piece puzzles, tactile puzzles, and digital options that cater to different abilities. Whether working solo or solving a puzzle with a friend, it’s a satisfying way to challenge the mind and stay engaged.
Aromatherapy
Scents have a powerful impact on mood and relaxation. Lavender for calm, citrus for energy, or peppermint for focus — aromatherapy can be tailored to individual needs. Essential oils, scented candles, or even fresh herbs can create a soothing environment. It’s a simple yet effective way to promote relaxation and well-being, whether through a diffuser, scented pillow, or a warm bath with essential oils.
Local Attractions
Exploring local attractions — museums, zoos, parks, or aquariums — can be a great way to engage with the community and experience something new. Many venues now offer accessibility features like wheelchair-friendly paths, sensory-friendly hours, or guided tours designed for different needs. Whether it’s discovering history, admiring art, or simply enjoying a day out, there’s always something interesting to explore.
Calligraphy
Calligraphy is a beautiful blend of art and mindfulness. It encourages focus, fine motor skills, and creativity. For those with limited hand mobility, there are adaptive tools and digital options that make it more accessible. Try practicing traditional lettering or experimenting with freeform styles as a way to create something personal. Plus, handwritten notes and cards can be a heartfelt way to connect with others.
Adaptive Journaling
Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-expression, reflection, and creativity. Whether it’s writing, drawing, or using voice-to-text apps, there are many ways to keep a journal. Some may prefer digital journals with accessibility features, while others might enjoy scrapbooking or bullet journaling with stickers and textures. No matter the method, journaling offers a safe space to express thoughts and capture memories.
Learn a New Language
Apps, audiobooks, and adaptive learning tools make learning a new language more accessible than ever. Sign language can be an incredibly valuable skill to learn, fostering inclusivity and communication. Whether practicing a few phrases or diving into full lessons, language learning builds confidence and cognitive skills.
Virtual Reality Experiences
Virtual reality opens up a world of possibilities, allowing people to explore new places, play immersive games, or even engage in therapy sessions. Many VR experiences are designed with accessibility in mind, offering adjustable settings and adaptive controls. From guided relaxation in a virtual beach setting to interactive learning experiences, VR can provide an exciting and accessible way to engage with the world in a whole new way.
Animal Therapy
Spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and provide companionship. Whether it’s petting a therapy dog, visiting a farm, or even caring for a pet at home, animal interactions can be incredibly comforting. Look for organisations that offer structured animal therapy programs designed to provide emotional and sensory benefits in a safe, supportive setting.
Photography
Photography is a wonderful way to capture moments, express creativity, and explore the world from different perspectives. Adaptive camera equipment, smartphone apps, and voice-controlled features make photography accessible for people with different abilities. Whether it’s nature photography, portrait shots, or abstract compositions, photography encourages people to see beauty in everyday moments.
Like Family spoke with Tess Yvanovich, Founder of Right4Me, to understand the essential considerations for planning activities for people with disabilities.
Like Family (LF): What are the most important factors to consider when planning activities for people with disabilities?
Tess Yvanovich (TY): “The number one factor has to be accessibility. Providing specific accessibility information in advance is crucial to helping someone decide if they will be able to participate in your event.
“Being trauma-informed is [also] really important for anyone planning activities and events for people with disabilities. Some disabled people have specific trauma diagnoses, but even those without are likely to have had traumatising encounters at some point in their lives.
“You might be hearing more and more people talking about sensory needs in relation to neurodivergent and disabled people. It’s great that awareness is increasing, but sensory needs are surprisingly complex. So how do you to accommodate everyone? Well, harsh fluorescent lighting rarely helps anyone, but beyond that, it’s about providing options and being flexible. Keep outside distractions to a minimum, and welcome stimming and movement breaks.”
LF: What are common mistakes people make when organising activities for individuals with disabilities?
TY: “Obviously I don’t speak for every disabled individual, but scheduling activities first thing in the day is often difficult for us and I’d recommend against it as a general rule.
“Not providing accessibility info or an agenda/outline of the event — this uncertainty can easily be enough to stop people attending, and not considering the environment and how it will impact us.
“Assuming that all people with the same impairment/condition have the same needs. Things like assuming all wheelchair users can’t walk; people with intellectual disability can’t read; or thinking they understand autism because their six-year-old niece is autistic, when autism is, in fact, a huge and non-linear spectrum that looks unique in every individual.
“Always assume competence — well-meaning people will often jump in and ‘help’ before the person with disability has even had a chance to begin. Let us show you what we can do. Just because I’m disabled, doesn’t mean I can’t do it!”
LF: How do social connections and group participation impact the experience of people with disabilities in activities?
TY: “Social isolation is a real issue for many people with disabilities — In 2021, 1 in 5 (19%) people with disability aged 15–64 experienced social isolation, compared with 9.5% without disability.
“Activities that facilitate social connections and group participation can be absolute lifelines, providing opportunities to meet people with shared experiences and understanding, practice communication skills and socialising, build confidence and self-esteem, and ideally, build friendships that can last beyond the event or program, thus improving overall quality of life.”
LF: What are some ways to encourage participation for those who might feel hesitant or self-conscious?
TY: “Try to avoid taking turns with one person ‘doing the thing’ and everyone else watching — have everyone do it together to reduce anxiety.
“Providing multiple ways to participate is really important — some people love talking in front of the group, others would prefer to draw or write or dance it.
“Because disabled people remain a marginalised group in our society, some of us might not have had as much practice as non-disabled people in chatting to new people or making friends. That’s not our fault! Facilitators should be proactive in introducing and connecting people and supporting them in conversation when necessary.”
Frequently asked questions
How can I make sure an activity is accessible for someone with a disability?
The best approach is to ask the individual about their needs and preferences. Consider factors like mobility, sensory sensitivities, and cognitive abilities. Look for adaptive tools, accessible venues, and flexible participation options. Most importantly, be open to adjustments — what works for one person may not work for another, so a personalised approach is key.
Are there any free or low-cost activities for people with disabilities?
Many community centres, libraries, and parks offer free or low-cost accessible programs. Activities like gardening, walking groups, board games, and meditation require little to no money. Additionally, online resources such as free language-learning apps, virtual museum tours, and adaptive video games provide accessible entertainment without breaking the bank.
What should I do if someone is hesitant to try a new activity?
Start small and let them take the lead. Offer a low-pressure introduction, like watching others participate or trying a simplified version of the activity. Encouragement and patience go a long way, and sometimes having a familiar person join in can make it more comfortable. The goal is to make activities enjoyable, not stressful, so respecting personal boundaries is essential.