HPE Equality and Equity, Barriers and Enablers Practice Exam

Demographic change can indeed act as both a barrier and an enabler, especially in terms of aging populations in the context of sports participation. As populations age, there can be limitations in access to competitive sports due to factors such as decreased physical ability, health issues, or reduced mobility. These challenges can create barriers for older individuals wishing to engage in traditional forms of competitive sports.

However, this demographic shift can also lead to an increased interest in sports that are more suited to older adults, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, which may be more accessible and cater to their capabilities. Sports organizations and programs may adapt to focus more on inclusivity for older populations, thus enabling greater participation. The transformation in offerings can help foster a community that encourages healthy lifestyles, keeping individuals active longer, and promoting social engagement, which again connects to sports at various levels.

This dual nature of demographic change highlights the complexity of how societal trends influence participation in sports, making option B a comprehensive reflection of the dynamics between barriers and enablers in this context.