Treating obesity of mentally retarded adolescents and adults: an exploratory program

Twelve female mentally retarded adolescents and adults who were at least 10 percent overweight were randomly assigned to either a behavioral weight-reduction program or a control condition. Mothers of the treatment group members met for seven fortnightly sessions and received information and instructions concerning weight management. Treatment group members met for six weekly sessions and received similar information and instructions adapted for their intellectual level. Results showed that treatment group members lost significantly more weight than did control group members according to all three dependent measures. Losses were maintained at 3, 6, and 12 months. Issues arising from the program were discussed.