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Fostering independence in health-promoting exercise
Michelle D Lynnes1, Doug Nichols, Viviene A Temple
1University of Calgary, Canada.
Adults with intellectual disability improved exercise skills and frequency through a tailored program. This approach extended program reach beyond in-person sessions, showing high participant satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Exercise science
- Disability studies
- Special Olympics research
Background:
- Designing effective exercise programs for adults with intellectual disability (ID) is crucial for their health and well-being.
- The Integrated Model of Physical Activity and Disability provides a framework for such interventions.
- Special Olympics provides a platform for engaging adults with ID in sports and physical activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the acquisition and home-based application of exercise skills in adults with ID.
- To assess adherence, satisfaction, and changes in exercise frequency following a structured program.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of extending face-to-face programs with indirect support.
Main Methods:
- A strength and aerobic exercise program was designed using the Integrated Model of Physical Activity and Disability.
- Four adults with intellectual disability participating in Special Olympics were enrolled.
- Skills were taught face-to-face, with subsequent home-based application and indirect support (e.g., exercise DVD, phone calls).
Main Results:
- Participants successfully acquired strength exercise skills and applied most at home with minimal support.
- High program satisfaction was reported, particularly with individualized planning and telephone follow-up.
- Three out of four participants demonstrated a threefold increase in exercise frequency using an exercise DVD independently.
Conclusions:
- Face-to-face exercise programs can be effectively extended to home settings for adults with ID.
- Individualized planning and remote support enhance skill acquisition, adherence, and exercise frequency.
- This approach overcomes facility and staff limitations, increasing program accessibility for individuals with intellectual disability.
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