Participating in outdoor activities offers countless benefits for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) — from improved health and social connection to enhanced independence and emotional well-being.
Whether it’s gardening, walking, or creating art in the sunshine, outdoor activities can be tailored to meet a wide range of abilities and interests. With the right support from caregivers, family, and direct support professionals, these experiences can become powerful tools for personal growth and inclusion.
Benefits of outdoor activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Outdoor activities offer a wide range of benefits for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, supporting both personal growth and overall well-being. From physical health to emotional resilience, time spent in nature creates meaningful opportunities for individuals to connect with their surroundings, build relationships, and engage with the world around them.
One of the primary advantages of outdoor activities for adults with disabilities is improved physical health. Whether it’s walking, gardening, or participating in adaptive sports, these activities encourage movement, balance, and coordination. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic conditions, improve motor skills, and support a healthy lifestyle.
Outdoor experiences also enhance mental and emotional wellness. Nature-based activities can reduce stress and anxiety, increase focus, and elevate mood. For individuals with IDD, time outside often means sensory exploration — feeling the texture of leaves, hearing birdsong, or observing the change of seasons — which can be grounding and therapeutic.
Group activities like nature walks, birdwatching, cloud watching, or community gardening foster inclusion and help build friendships. These experiences promote communication, teamwork, and a sense of belonging — important elements of social-emotional development. Engaging in outdoor activities also supports independence and confidence. Whether making choices about what to explore or mastering a new outdoor skill, individuals gain a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.
Great outdoor activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Finding the right outdoor activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can create enriching experiences that support physical, emotional, and social growth. Activities like gardening, outdoor art, and adapted exercise or sports are especially beneficial because they offer structure, creativity, and engagement in a safe, inclusive environment.
- Gardening is a sensory-rich activity that encourages responsibility, patience, and connection to nature. Whether planting flowers or tending vegetables, gardening helps improve fine motor skills and offers a calming, therapeutic experience. For many adults with IDD, watching their plants grow provides a sense of accomplishment and routine — while also encouraging healthy habits and environmental awareness.
- Outdoor art projects offer another creative and accessible way to enjoy nature. Activities like painting in the park, using natural materials for crafts, or drawing with sidewalk chalk allow for self-expression while developing motor coordination. Outdoor art also supports sensory integration and can be adapted for different ability levels. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to boost confidence and creativity.
- Exercise and adaptive sports are essential components of healthy living and community participation. Activities such as walking clubs, wheelchair basketball, bocce, or even guided stretching in the park promote physical fitness, social interaction, and teamwork. These inclusive opportunities help adults with IDD build strength, coordination, and self-esteem while also reducing stress and isolation.
These outdoor activities for adults with disabilities are not only enjoyable — they’re meaningful. They create spaces where individuals can grow, express themselves, and feel connected. By offering accessible and engaging options like gardening, art, and sports, caregivers and community organizations can empower adults with IDD to thrive in the great outdoors.
How to train family and staff to support adults with IDD
To help your clients see the benefits that outdoor activities for adults with disabilities bring, it’s important to offer training to the people who support them. Here are some things to consider when training family, friends, and direct support professionals to help adults with IDD enjoy the outdoors.
Training family and friends of adults with IDD
Parents and friends play a vital role in making outdoor activities safe, enjoyable, and empowering for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With the right training and mindset, they can help foster independence while providing appropriate support.
First, it’s important to educate loved ones about the specific needs and strengths of the individual. This includes understanding communication preferences, sensory sensitivities, and any medical or behavioral considerations. Training should emphasize person-centered approaches, encouraging adults with IDD to make choices and express preferences during outdoor experiences.
Supporters should also learn how to create predictable, low-stress environments. This might involve using visual schedules, offering clear instructions, or introducing new activities gradually. Safety awareness — like identifying accessible spaces, staying hydrated, and using sun protection — is another critical area to cover.
Above all, training should promote dignity and inclusion. Friends and family should aim to empower rather than over-assist, allowing the adult to participate fully and build confidence through experience. With guidance and compassion, family and peers can help ensure that outdoor activities are not only accessible but also deeply enriching.
Train DSPs to support clients in outdoor activities
Direct support professionals (DSPs) are essential in creating safe, meaningful outdoor experiences for adults with IDD. Effective training ensures DSPs are equipped to foster independence, promote engagement, and respond to individual needs with confidence and care.
Training should begin with person-centered practices — helping DSPs understand individual preferences, communication style, mobility needs, and sensory sensitivities. This allows DSPs to tailor outdoor activities appropriately, ensuring they are both accessible and enjoyable.
DSPs should also be trained in safety planning and risk assessment. This includes scouting accessible routes, understanding how to manage behavior in public settings, and knowing how to respond to weather-related challenges or medical needs.
Promoting autonomy is key. DSPs should learn to strike a balance between offering support and encouraging individuals to make choices, try new activities, and build self-confidence. Role-playing and scenario-based training can be especially helpful in preparing for real-world interactions.
Finally, DSPs should be equipped to facilitate inclusion — encouraging social interaction, respecting cultural differences, and advocating for accessibility in community spaces.