91桃色

Abstract

Objective: Assess feasibility of a virtual intervention to improve dietary habits, social interaction, and stress management among adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PwIDD), led by college students as part of a health curriculum.

Methods: Eight 75-minute virtual sessions led from home kitchens were assessed using pre- and post-intervention surveys; post-intervention focus groups.

Results: Participants were adult PwIDD (n=49 at T1, n=27 at T2)) and their caregivers (n=28, n=15 at T2)), 5 faculty mentors, and 12 college student instructors. Reliability scores were high for distress and loneliness measures; low for dietary measures. PwIDD program completers differed from non-completers on several variables, including employment and living situation.

Conclusions and implications: The online intervention, facilitated through a college curriculum for health-related disciplines, was feasible for PwIDD and caregivers who completed the program, most faculty and all students. Valid and reliable assessment tools are needed for PwIDD.

Keywords: Stress reduction, Intellectual and developmental disabilities, Diet, Socialization, Incorporation into health-related college curriculum