People with activity limitations' perceptions of their health condition and their relationships with social participation and experienced autonomy.

People with activity limitations who experience less control over their condition participate less in volunteer work and club activities than people who experience more control. Perceptions of the health condition are just as important to explain differences in participation as the severity of people's activity limitations and their socio-demographic characteristics. Health and social care professionals should pay attention to people's perceptions, to help people with activity limitations to participate according to their needs, circumstances, and preferences.