Developing a physical activity education curriculum for adults with intellectual disabilities

Health Promot Pract. 2012 Jan;13(1):116-23. doi: 10.1177/1524839910381698. Epub 2011 Mar 28.

Abstract

Adults with intellectual disabilities have high rates of physical inactivity and related chronic diseases. Researchers have called for an increase in the development and evaluation of health education programs adapted to the unique needs of this population. Formative and process evaluation strategies were applied to develop a physical activity education program. The first phase of formative evaluation included a comprehensive literature review to select educational strategies and curriculum content. The theory of planned behavior was selected as a guiding framework, and meetings with stakeholders were held to assess feasibility. The second phase of formative evaluation included an assessment of materials by an expert panel and the priority population, and pilot testing. Next, field testing was implemented, followed by process evaluation and an assessment of implementation fidelity. The final curriculum was developed as a result of the completion of the aforementioned steps and led to a successful physical activity intervention.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Curriculum*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Persons with Mental Disabilities*
  • Physical Education and Training*
  • Program Development*
  • United States
  • Young Adult