Gullahs on the go: a descriptive qualitative study of physical activity accessibility for African American adults with mobility disabilities living in rural communities.

PURPOSE: The primary purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of African American adults with mobility disabilities accessing and navigating physical activity facilities in rural communities. A secondary purpose was to identify alternative physical activity locations used by participants who do not utilize traditional facilities.

METHODS

This descriptive qualitative study was guided by the Social Ecological Model and an intersectionality framework. Participants were five African American adults with mobility disabilities residing in rural Georgetown and Williamsburg Counties, South Carolina. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and photovoice and analyzed using thematic and constant comparative approaches.

RESULTS

Three themes emerged: (a) Ain't Gonna Let Disability Turn Me Round, reflecting resilience and commitment to physical activity; (b) Ease on Down de Road, describing navigation of and travel to facilities; and (c) We Are Family, highlighting the role of social networks.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings emphasize the need for culturally relevant, accessible, and community-based physical activity opportunities in rural rehabilitation and public health contexts.