Health Promotion Through Advanced Physical Activity Programs for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) present multiple co-morbidities within the medical, physiological, and mental areas, thereby putting them at an increased risk for a variety of illnesses. Moreover, many of them are living a life of inactivity, thereby worsening their health condition. Many researchers have identified a clear relationship between physical fitness and wellness. This chapter will describe the poor physical condition of individuals with IDD and will suggest some intervention possibilities, focusing on motivational factors and integration into the person’s daily living routines. While some physical activity possibilities are free and can be found online, other more advanced tools for promoting an active lifestyle can be implemented with this group of people. The present chapter will suggest research-based effective strategies to enhance the physical activity of people with IDD through remote activity intervention programs, virtual reality training, and personally adapted simple training applications.