Examining Physical Activity Levels and Quality of Life Among Persons with Physical Disabilities in Imo State

Physical activity participation is a recognised determinant of quality of life for persons with physical disabilities, yet this relationship remains poorly quantified within the Nigerian disability context. This study examines the relationship between physical activity levels and health-related quality of life among persons with physical disabilities in Imo State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical survey was conducted among 180 adults with physical disabilities aged 18 to 65 years, recruited through disability welfare organisations and rehabilitation centres in three local government areas. Physical activity was assessed using the Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities, while quality of life was measured using the WHO Quality of Life Brief Scale across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Multiple regression analysis examined physical activity as a predictor of quality of life domain scores. Findings reveal that regular physical activity is significantly positively associated with quality of life across all four domains, with the physical and psychological domains showing the strongest relationships. Only 28 percent of respondents meet recommended physical activity levels, with the primary barriers identified as inaccessible sports and recreation facilities, transport difficulties, absence of adapted exercise programmes, and financial constraints. Recommendations include developing accessible community physical activity programmes for persons with disabilities, establishing adapted sports clubs within local government areas, and advocating for disability-inclusive physical activity infrastructure investment in Imo State. Keywords: physical activity, quality of life, physical disabilities, Imo State, adapted sports