scholarly journals Needs of Direct Support Professionals to Support People With Intellectual Disabilities in Leading a Healthy Lifestyle

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Annelies Overwijk ◽  
Thessa I. M. Hilgenkamp ◽  
Cees P. Schans ◽  
Annette A. J. Putten ◽  
Aly Waninge
Keyword(s):  
Intellectual Disabilities ◽  
Healthy Lifestyle ◽  
Direct Support ◽  
Direct Support Professionals ◽  
People With Intellectual Disabilities

scholarly journals Implementation of a program to support direct support professionals to promote a healthy lifestyle for people with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities

2022 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Overwijk ◽  
T. I. M. Hilgenkamp ◽  
C. P. van der Schans ◽  
W. P. Krijnen ◽  
K. Vlot-van Anrooij ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Intellectual Disabilities ◽  
Healthy Lifestyle ◽  
Training And Education ◽  
Implementation Phase ◽  
Time Investment ◽  
Direct Support ◽  
Direct Support Professionals ◽  
Preparation Phase ◽  
E Learning

Abstract Background There is a lack of theory-based interventions for direct support professionals (DSPs) to support a healthy lifestyle for people with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities (ID) despite their major role in this. This study aims to evaluate the preparation, implementation, and preliminary outcomes of a theory-based training and education program for DSPs to learn how to support these individuals. Methods The program consisting of e-learning, three in-person sessions, and three assignments was implemented. The implementation process was evaluated with a mixed method design with the following components: preparation phase, implementation phase, and the outcomes. These components were measured with project notes, questionnaires, interviews, reflections, assignments, food diaries, Actigraph/Actiwatch, and an inventory of daily activities. Results Regarding the preparation phase, enough potential participants met the inclusion criteria and the time to recruit the participants was 9 months. The program was implemented in four (residential) facilities and involved individuals with moderate to profound ID (n = 24) and DSPs (n = 32). The e-learning was completed by 81% of the DSPs, 72–88% attended the in-person sessions, and 34–47% completed the assignments. Overall, the fidelity of the program was good. DSPs would recommend the program, although they were either negative or positive about the time investment. Mutual agreement on expectations were important for the acceptability and suitability of the program. For the outcomes, the goals of the program were achieved, and the attitudes of DSPs towards a healthy lifestyle were improved after 3 months of the program (nutrition: p = < 0.01; physical activity: p = 0.04). A statistically significant improvement was found for food intake of people with ID (p = 0.047); for physical activity, no statistically significant differences were determined. Conclusions The theory-based program consisting of a training and education section for DSPs to support a healthy lifestyle for people with moderate to profound ID was feasible to implement and, despite some barriers regarding time capacity and mutual expectations, it delivered positive changes in both persons with moderate to profound ID and DSPs. Thus, the program is a promising intervention to support DSPs.

Lifestyles and intellectual disability nursing

2018 ◽  
pp. 453-476
Author(s):  
Owen Barr ◽  
Bob Gates
Keyword(s):  
Intellectual Disability ◽  
Intellectual Disabilities ◽  
Supported Employment ◽  
Healthy Lifestyle ◽  
Significant Component ◽  
The Family ◽  
People With Intellectual Disabilities

A significant component of the role of nurses for people with intellectual disabilities is contributing to enabling people with intellectual disabilities to live the lifestyle they choose. Advice about residential alternatives, work, supported employment, and planning on retirement are all things on which the nurse should be able to advise, and signpost people to the services they need. Importantly, helping and advising the family and carers about setting up networks and circles of support and that making and keeping friends are as important and can all contribute to leading a happy and healthy lifestyle.

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