Physical Activity With Tailored mHealth Support for Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities: Protocol for a...

Area of Science:

• Health behavior interventions
• Digital health technologies
• Disability studies

Background:

• Individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) exhibit lower physical activity (PA) levels and face significant barriers to fitness participation.
• Increased PA offers crucial cardiovascular and psychosocial health benefits, necessitating effective interventions for this population.
• Mobile health (mHealth) interventions, including exergames and smartphone reminders, show promise for promoting PA in individuals with IDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized PA program incorporating motivational mHealth support.
• To assess the impact of this intervention on daily PA levels in youth and adults with IDs.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 60 participants (16-60 years) with sedentary lifestyles or low PA levels.
• The intervention group receives tailored mHealth support via smartphones/tablets, focusing on communication abilities, with rewards and feedback.
• Primary outcome is PA (steps/day); secondary outcomes include BMI, blood pressure, physical performance, social support, self-efficacy, behavior problems, and goal attainment.

Main Results:

• Study enrollment was planned for April 2020 but experienced delays due to the pandemic.
• The primary contribution is a detailed study plan to generate knowledge on tailored mHealth for PA in individuals with IDs.

Conclusions:

• The tailored mHealth intervention is expected to outperform standard care in enhancing PA, self-efficacy, and social support.
• This research will determine the effectiveness and sustainability of mHealth solutions for increasing PA in youth and adults with IDs.
• Technology presents novel opportunities for promoting healthy behaviors within this demographic.