Physical Activity for Adults With Intellectual Disabilities in West Virginia

Background/Purpose: Individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) are considered a high risk population for obesity, with the prevalence increased by 58% for individuals with ID as compared to the general population (CDC, 2012).  The highest rates of obesity within this population group are those who reside in group homes and family households as compared to those living in larger, more restricted institutionalized settings (Rimmer & Yamaki, 2006).  Less restrictive environments are highly supportive and promote independence and responsibility, yet this opportunity for individual choice can offer greater access to unhealthy food options and decreased physical activity (Doody & Doody, 2012).  Family members and caregivers are a vital link to facilitate accessibility to healthy lifestyle choices and opportunities for physical activity (Pitetti, Rimmer, & Ferhnall, 1993). 

West Virginia ranks as in the top percentile of obesity rates within the United States (CDC, 2012).  It also has the highest percentage of residents with disabilities, and approximately 7.5% percent of the population of West Virginia has an ID (CEDWVU, 2012).  When examining adults with ID and their primary caregivers in West Virginia, it is important to gain an understanding of the facilitators and barriers to achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

Method: A qualitative research methods approach was taken, using data collected from surveys and focus groups.  Four focus group sessions were conducted in two different geographic locations in West Virginia.  Participants included both the adult with ID and their primary caregiver. Through a guided focus group discussion, qualitative data was collected and analyzed to determine emerging themes related to the current levels of, facilitators, and barriers to physical activity and wellness among adults with ID. 

Analysis/Results: Findings indicated that friendships and fun to be the primary motivation for physical activity participation for adults with ID.  Outside of Special Olympics, the majority of activities engaged in were individual activities such as weight training, cardio machines, swimming and walking.  Barriers identified for this population included time, work schedules, accessibility and transportation requirements.  The key theme which emerged from the caregiver interviews indicated that the primary caregivers felt responsible for the health and wellness of the person within their care. 

Conclusions: Results from this study indicate the need for community programs to include support components for caregivers.  Physical activity programs should include the participation of the caregiver and the adult with ID.  In addition, family focused nutrition lessons would encourage a lifestyle change throughout the home.