Perspectives of constraining and enabling factors for health-promoting physical activity by adults with intellectual disability

BACKGROUND - Physical activity influences health in individuals and within populations. This study explored factors perceived as enabling or inhibiting participation in physical activity by adults with intellectual disability from a health promotion perspective. METHOD - Six focus group interviews were conducted: adults with intellectual disability (1 group, n=9), direct care workers (1 group, n=5), group home supervisors (2 groups, n=9 and n=6), managers (1 group, n=4), and parents (1 group, n=7). RESULTS - Three major themes were identified from the focus group interviews: motivation for participation, social support, and political and financial support. CONCLUSIONS - The most critical issue was the lack of clear policies. Both day training centres and accommodation services would benefit from development of policies related to health-promoting physical activity. Flowing on logically from the development of policy would be much needed training and support of staff.