Can physical training have an effect on well-being in adults with mild intellectual disability?

Mech Ageing Dev. 2005 Feb;126(2):299-304. doi: 10.1016/j.mad.2004.08.021.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of physical training on balance, strength, and general well-being in adult people with intellectual disability (ID). This study evaluated how physical training can effect physical and psychological change among 'older' adults with mild ID. Participants consisted of non-randomly selected groups with ID (n=22), between 54 and 66 years of age. Clinical balance functional tests were measured by a modified Timed Get-up and Go test and Functional Reach test. Knee muscles strength were measured on a Biodex dynamometer. The self-concept of well-being was measured by direct interview with a questionnaire consisting of 37 structural statements. Physical training program was conducted three times a week for six consecutive months. Multiple regression analyses suggested positive relations between balance, muscle strength, well-being and physical training between the experimental and control group. This positive relation can support the role and importance of physical training to improve locomotor performance and perception of well-being among 'older' adults with ID.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Exercise*
  • Female
  • Gait
  • Humans
  • Intellectual Disability / pathology*
  • Knee / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscles / pathology
  • Physical Education and Training
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • Postural Balance
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Time Factors
  • Walking