Efficacy of the HealthMatters program train-the-trainer model

Area of Science:

• Health Promotion
• Intellectual Disabilities Research
• Community Health Interventions

Background:

• Limited research on health promotion strategies for adults with intellectual disabilities in community settings.
• Need for evidence-based interventions in real-world living and working environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the staff-led HealthMatters Program: Train-the-Trainer Model.
• To improve health and health behaviors among adults with intellectual disabilities in community-based organizations (CBOs).

Main Methods:

• A 12-week health promotion program (exercise and education) was implemented by trained staff.
• Adults with intellectual disabilities (aged 30+) were randomized into intervention or control groups.
• Thirty-four staff from CBOs received 8-hour training to deliver the program.

Main Results:

• The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in health status.
• Participants showed enhanced knowledge and self-efficacy regarding health.
• Fitness levels significantly improved in the intervention group.

Conclusions:

• The HealthMatters Program is effective in improving health outcomes for adults with intellectual disabilities within CBOs.
• CBOs should integrate health promotion into their core mission and operational frameworks.
• The Train-the-Trainer model provides a scalable approach for health promotion delivery.