by Mark Trieglaff

The opportunity to recreate is an important need for every person. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) reports that being active reduces stress and depression and increases overall fitness, life expectancy and health. (See Benefits of a Zoo Visit monograph at http://www.ncpad.org/67/491/Zoo~Visit~-~Benefits).

The American Association of Museums (AAM) reports that more than 865 million visits were made to museums, zoos, and aquariums in 1999, or 2.3 million visits per day. For most people, the choice of activity depends on personal issues such as time, money, and skill. For others, their disability will affect their recreational choices. These individuals need specific information and answers to questions such as: "If I use a wheelchair, can I maneuver into the museum building for the art display?" "At the play, will I be able to hear the dialogue despite my hearing condition?" "As my vision is so low, will I be able to see any animals clearly at the zoo?"

Read the complete monograph at http://www.ncpad.org/61/453/Museums~~Zoos~and~Aquariums~-~Enhancing~Accessibility