Analysis of Political Documents and Recommendations in Terms of Physical Activity Promotion for People with...

Background/Objectives: Compared to the general population, people with (intellectual) disabilities often exhibit a greater degree of sedentary behavior and inactivity. Therefore we systematically examined various political and institutional guidelines, directives and frameworks for the promotion of physical activity (PA). The aim of this empirical study was to conduct a document analysis of various documents using previously defined criteria to examine the occurrence of terms and objectives relating to the promotion of PA. Methods: The sample (N = 19) included 13 Austrian and 6 international policy and strategy concepts for promoting PA as well as legal frameworks and service specifications for facilities and support services for people with (intellectual) disabilities. To obtain a systematic overview of the frequencies of terms and objectives of PA promotion in selected documents, a frequency analysis procedure was used. Moreover, all documents were screened based on availability in easy-to-read language, which is essential for people with intellectual disabilities. Results: The results of the analysis show a varied distribution of the frequency of references to PA promotion within the sample. International guidelines and World Health Organization (WHO) documents, as well as documents on national strategies for promoting PA behavior in Austria, contain relevant terminology and objectives for PA promotion. Conclusions: However, the promotion of PA is barely mentioned in some of the analyzed documents, as are related terminology and goals. These should be placed more at the center of political and social measures to raise awareness of health-enhancing PA for people with and without (intellectual) disabilities.