Factors that potentially influence successful weight loss for adults with intellectual disabilities: A qualitative comparison

Abstract

Background: People with intellectual disabilities are more at risk of obesity than the general population. Emerging literature indicates that multicomponent interventions are most effective, however, individual results are variable and little research exists as to why this is the case. Methods: Focus groups were conducted to explore lived experiences between two groups of adults with intellectual disabilities; an overweight group ( n = 6) and a group identified as successful in losing weight ( n = 6). Similarities and differences were explored across four domains. Transcripts were produced and analysed using Theoretical Thematic Analysis. Results: Similarities included service centre supports, basic food knowledge and issues restricting independence. The successful weight loss group had also internalised health messages, engaged with external reinforcement programmes, responded to positive feedback and demonstrated healthier dietary habits. Conclusion: Weight management interventions would benefit from understanding the influence that internalisation of health messages, effective reinforcement systems and positive feedback can have on supporting the adoption of healthier habits.

Designing the Food and Lifestyle Information Program (FLIP) culinary nutrition intervention for adults with mild‐to‐moderate intellectual disability

“…[28][29][30][31][32] Qualitative studies describe the barriers and enablers to healthy eating from the perspective of people with intellectual disability. 28,30,31,33,34 These report that people with intellectual disability are generally able to identify key components of a healthy diet, why nutrition is important and the consequences of unhealthy behaviours, including poor eating habits. 28,31,[33][34][35] However, support and skills to translate this knowledge into healthy eating practices is required, and insufficient support to purchase and prepare healthy meals is reported as a barrier to healthy eating.…”

“…28,30,31,33,34 These report that people with intellectual disability are generally able to identify key components of a healthy diet, why nutrition is important and the consequences of unhealthy behaviours, including poor eating habits. 28,31,[33][34][35] However, support and skills to translate this knowledge into healthy eating practices is required, and insufficient support to purchase and prepare healthy meals is reported as a barrier to healthy eating. 28,30 There is a need for health promotion programs that can be tailored to abilities of individual people with intellectual disability 13,36,37 and promote self-efficacy to make healthy choices.…”

“…Food preferences, sensory aversions and availability of support to prepare meals can affect healthy food provision priorities and practices of people with intellectual disability 28–32 . Qualitative studies describe the barriers and enablers to healthy eating from the perspective of people with intellectual disability 28,30,31,33,34 . These report that people with intellectual disability are generally able to identify key components of a healthy diet, why nutrition is important and the consequences of unhealthy behaviours, including poor eating habits 28,31,33–35 .…”