Physical Activity Experiences of People With Type 1 Diabetes Across the Life Course

This study offers novel and significant insights to advance understanding, practice, and policy regarding physical activity (PA) across the lifespan among individuals with Type 1 diabetes in the United Kingdom. Utilizing both medicalized and sociocultural lenses, we aimed to (a) examine the PA experiences of people with Type 1 diabetes and (b) explore the meanings of PA across the life course. The qualitative testimonies of a 311 participants aged 3-75 were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis across age-based case studies. We identified why PA becomes meaningful at particular life stages and how experiences are shaped by intersections of technology use, social attitudes, health care transitions, body image, and identity. Participants of all ages described navigating stigma, institutional misunderstanding, and internalized ableism, often heightened with age. We conclude that the Type 1 diabetes community remains underserved by current approaches and call for targeted policy, practitioner training, and lifespan-oriented research that fosters inclusive and empowering PA opportunities.