As the most populated state in the U.S., California also has a large population of people with disabilities. California offers an abundance of different kinds of activities for people with all kinds of disabilities.
Statistics
About 2.6 million people--about 9.3 percent of the California population--have a disability of some type, which covers cognitive, mobility and daily activity limitation disabilities, according to a 2008-2009 study from the Center for Personal Assistance Services, San Francisco.
Education
A variety of educational activities throughout the state give disabled people a way to actively engage in their communities. Summer camp programs, such as Camp Krem in Boulder Creek, provide year-round education and life-enhancing activities for people with developmental disabilities. Campers can swim, do arts and crafts, work with pottery, enjoy and make music, and engage in drama, nature and hiking. The Enrichment and Social Opportunities for Life Skills program in Northridge provides after-school care and activities for disabled children, as well as adult enrichment programs that include field trips and games.
Recreation
A variety of physically stimulating activities complement the abundance of educational programs for disabled individuals in California. Special Olympics gives people with all types of disabilities a chance to participate and compete. More than 13,000 people compete annually in Southern California's Special Olympics Games, and the games are free to all participants.
Many of the state's popular theme parks, such as Disneyland, cater to disabled individuals through special assistance passes that eliminate waiting in long lines, as well as offering wheelchair rentals at affordable rates ($7 per day).
Another popular activity for people with disabilities is attending a professional game at one of the state's many athletic complexes. Angels Stadium in Anaheim offers state-of-the-art access for with close parking, wheelchair ramps, 500 wheelchair spots, elevators and ballpark guides.
Function
These activities provide ways for people with disabilities to network and get to know others who have experienced similar obstacles and lifestyles. These programs also can provide a breather for family members, who can become worn out from constant care of their loved one. Getting some respite helps caregivers provide the best support system possible once their disabled family member gets home.
Effects
Children and adults with disabilities need opportunities to be active and integral parts of society, despite the severity of their conditions. Federal legislation such as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Disabilities Education Act of 1975 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 have paved the way to giving disabled individuals more rights and funding. In the early 2000s California passed legislation to take a more generous approach to the budget regarding disability rights, according to organization Disability Rights California. These consistent strides contribute to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities.
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