Finding enjoyable and meaningful activities for people with disabilities can help support confidence, independence, social connection and everyday wellbeing. The right activity depends on a person’s interests, abilities, accessibility needs and the support they may require. There are many activities for adults with disabilities that can be adapted to suit different preferences. These include arts and crafts, cooking, gardening, music, games, exercise, social activities and practical tasks that help develop everyday skills.

Some activities can be enjoyed independently, while others may be easier with support from family, carers or disability support workers. In this guide, we explore 25 activities for adults with disabilities, including indoor, social, creative, physical and skill-building ideas.

What Are Good Activities for People With Disabilities?

Good activities for people with disabilities are those that match their interests, abilities and personal goals. There is no single activity that suits everyone, so it is important to consider what each person enjoys and what makes participation comfortable and accessible. When choosing activities, consider physical abilities, communication needs, sensory preferences and the level of support required. Some people may enjoy quiet, individual activities, while others may prefer group activities that provide opportunities to meet people and build friendships.

Activities can also be adapted to make participation easier. For example, cooking tasks can be simplified, craft materials can be chosen for easier handling, and games can be adjusted to suit different abilities. The goal is to help each person enjoy the activity, develop skills and participate in a way that works for them.

25 Activities for People With Disabilities

  1. Arts and Crafts: Painting, drawing and simple craft projects.
  2. Cooking: Preparing easy meals and snacks.
  3. Gardening: Planting flowers, herbs and vegetables.
  4. Music: Singing, listening to music or playing instruments.
  5. Puzzles and Board Games: Playing puzzles, cards and board games.
  6. Photography: Taking photos of nature and everyday life.
  7. Reading and Audiobooks: Enjoying books, stories and magazines.
  8. Indoor Exercise: Trying gentle stretches and seated exercises.
  9. Dancing: Moving to favourite songs.
  10. Sensory Activities: Exploring textures, scents and materials.
  11. Movie Sessions: Watching favourite films or shows.
  12. Video Games: Playing accessible computer or mobile games.
  13. Model-Making: Building with blocks or simple kits.
  14. Swimming: Enjoying water activities with suitable support.
  15. Nature Walks: Visiting parks and accessible walking paths.
  16. Café Visits: Exploring local cafés and community places.
  17. Volunteering: Helping with suitable community activities.
  18. Hobby Groups: Joining groups with shared interests.
  19. Learning Technology: Practising smartphone and computer skills.
  20. Daily Living Skills: Folding laundry or organising belongings.
  21. Shopping: Choosing items and practising budgeting.
  22. Baking: Making and decorating simple treats.
  23. Creative Writing: Writing stories, poems or journals.
  24. Quizzes and Trivia: Answering questions and playing group games.
  25. Personal Projects: Working towards individual interests and goals.

Indoor Activities for Adults With Disabilities

Indoor activities can provide enjoyable ways for adults with disabilities to stay engaged, especially when outdoor access, weather or transport is a challenge. Some ideas include:

  • Arts and Crafts: Painting, colouring and creative projects.
  • Indoor Exercise: Gentle stretching and seated movements.
  • Cooking: Preparing simple meals and snacks.
  • Board Games: Playing cards, puzzles and group games.
  • Music Sessions: Singing or listening to favourite songs.
  • Sensory Activities: Exploring different textures and materials.
  • Movie Sessions: Watching films with family or friends.
  • Technology Activities: Playing accessible games or learning new apps.

Choose activities based on individual interests, abilities and accessibility needs. Adapting materials and providing suitable support can make participation more comfortable.

Fun Activities for Adults With Disabilities

Fun activities help adults with disabilities enjoy their free time, explore interests and connect with others. Some ideas include:

  • Music and Karaoke: Sing along to favourite songs.
  • Games and Quizzes: Enjoy puzzles, trivia and board games.
  • Arts and Crafts: Create paintings and handmade items.
  • Cooking and Baking: Prepare simple meals or treats.
  • Movie Sessions: Watch favourite films with friends.
  • Gardening: Grow flowers, herbs or vegetables.
  • Dancing: Enjoy music through movement.
  • Photography: Capture interesting moments and places.
  • Hobby Groups: Connect with people who share similar interests.
  • Community Outings: Visit accessible parks, cafés or local events.

The best activities are those that match each person’s interests and abilities. Providing suitable support and making activities accessible can help everyone participate comfortably.

Skill-Building Activities for Adults With Disabilities

Skill-building activities can help adults with disabilities develop practical abilities, confidence and independence in everyday life. Activities such as cooking, shopping, budgeting, using technology and organising personal belongings can support individual goals. With suitable guidance and regular practice, participants can build skills at their own pace. NDIS life skills development can help eligible participants work towards greater independence through personalised support.

Learn more about NDIS life skills development and how it can support everyday goals.

Social Activities for Adults With Disabilities

Social activities can help adults with disabilities meet new people, build friendships and feel more connected to their community. Some ideas include:

  • Social Groups: Meet people with shared interests.
  • Hobby Groups: Join art, gardening or book clubs.
  • Community Events: Attend local activities and gatherings.
  • Music and Art Groups: Enjoy creative activities with others.
  • Sports and Recreation: Try suitable group activities.
  • Volunteering: Contribute to community projects.
  • Shared Cooking: Prepare meals with friends.
  • Café Visits: Spend time together in local cafés.
  • Group Games: Enjoy quizzes and board games.
  • Community Programs: Participate in organised activities.

The right support can make social participation more accessible and comfortable. Activities should suit each person’s interests, communication preferences and support needs. Elmur’s NDIS social confidence support can help eligible participants work towards their social goals.

How to Choose the Right Activity?

Choosing the right activity for a person with a disability starts with understanding their interests, abilities and personal goals. Consider the following factors:

  • Interests: Choose activities they genuinely enjoy.
  • Accessibility: Check whether the location and equipment are suitable.
  • Support Needs: Consider the assistance required to participate safely.
  • Sensory Preferences: Avoid sounds, textures or environments that cause discomfort.
  • Physical Abilities: Adapt activities to suit individual needs.
  • Social Preferences: Respect whether they prefer individual or group activities.
  • Cost: Consider equipment, transport and participation fees.
  • Location: Look for convenient and accessible places.
  • Personal Choice: Allow them to make decisions and try different activities.

The aim is to make activities enjoyable, accessible and meaningful without creating pressure. Giving people the freedom to choose can help them participate with greater confidence and independence.

Can NDIS Support Help People Participate in Activities?

NDIS support may help eligible participants access and take part in activities that relate to their disability, individual needs and plan goals. Depending on their circumstances, support may include assistance with community outings, social activities, developing everyday skills and building confidence. Support can help participants access suitable activities, practise new skills and participate more independently. However, the NDIS does not automatically fund every hobby, activity or entry fee. Funding depends on the participant’s plan, individual circumstances and applicable NDIS funding requirements.

Participants can discuss their goals and support needs with their provider to explore suitable options for meaningful participation.

How Elmur Can Support Participation in Activities?

Elmur Community Services provides personalised NDIS support to help participants take part in activities that match their interests, abilities and goals. Support can help participants access their community, build confidence and participate in meaningful everyday experiences.

Depending on individual needs, support may include:

  • Community Outings: Visiting local places and events.
  • Social Activities: Connecting with others and building friendships.
  • Shopping and Daily Tasks: Practising everyday skills.
  • Transport and Community Access: Getting to suitable activities.
  • Skill Development: Building independence through regular practice.
  • Personal Interests: Taking part in activities they enjoy.

Elmur focuses on supporting participants to make their own choices while providing the assistance they need to participate as independently as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are good activities for adults with disabilities?

Good activities for adults with disabilities are activities that match the person’s interests, abilities and accessibility needs. Options can include cooking, arts and crafts, gardening, music, games, exercise, photography, social groups and community activities. The activity can often be adapted to provide the right level of support.

2. What are some fun activities for adults with disabilities?

Fun activities can include music, karaoke, arts and crafts, cooking, gardening, board games, photography, dancing, movies, sports and hobby groups. The best choice depends on what the person enjoys and whether the activity can be adapted to their physical, communication or sensory needs.

3. What are some indoor activities for disabled adults?

Indoor activities for disabled adults can include cooking, crafts, puzzles, board games, music, reading, photography, accessible exercise, dancing and sensory activities. Indoor activities can be particularly useful when outdoor activities are difficult because of weather, accessibility, transport or personal preferences.

4. What activities can help adults with disabilities build skills?

Activities such as cooking, shopping, gardening, household organisation, budgeting, using public transport and planning an outing can help develop practical skills. When appropriate, these activities can be incorporated into everyday support so participants can practise skills in real-life situations.

5. Can NDIS support help me participate in activities?

NDIS support may help eligible participants access and participate in activities when the support is related to their disability, goals and individual needs. This may include assistance with community access, transport, communication or participating in an activity. The NDIS does not automatically fund every activity, hobby or admission cost, so funding depends on the participant’s plan and applicable requirements.

6. How do I choose activities for someone with a disability?

Start with the person’s own interests, preferences and abilities. Consider whether the activity is accessible, whether adaptations are needed, what level of support may be required, and whether the environment suits the person’s physical or sensory needs. Most importantly, the person should have a genuine choice about the activities they want to try.

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Looking for Support to Participate in Activities?

Finding enjoyable and accessible activities can help people with disabilities build confidence, develop skills and stay connected with their community.

Elmur Community Services provides personalised NDIS support to help participants take part in activities that match their interests, abilities and goals. Whether you need support with everyday tasks, social activities or community outings, our team can help you explore suitable options.

Email: info@elmur.com.au
Phone : (08) 6558 8814
Website : Elmur Community Services
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