Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) tend to have a higher risk of obesity. While the connection between intellectual disability and obesity isn’t the same for everyone, being overweight can present some challenges in day-to-day life. That being said, it’s important to remember that weight is not the only factor to consider when it comes to your overall health.
The link between obesity and disability is complicated. Everyone has different needs when it comes to getting active and staying fit. It’s important to take care of your mental, emotional, and physical health together. Read on to learn more about obesity and intellectual disability, plus some tips for staying fit!
Intellectual Disability and Obesity
The link between disability and obesity isn’t fully understood. However, there are some reasons disabled adults might have a harder time staying active.
Many adults with intellectual disability caused by conditions such as Down syndrome have a hard time getting as much physical activity as they need. This may be due to health concerns like joint pain or muscle weakness or due to other disability-related challenges.
Similar obstacles can also affect those who have developmental disabilities. For example, some adults with autism have a harder time being social with new people and feeling comfortable in public spaces, making it hard to be active outdoors.
Higher rates of obesity among adults with intellectual disabilities are concerning because they can lead to serious health issues, like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
But being overweight has no bearing on your worth or value as a person. Health is about so much more than the number on a scale.
If you are concerned about obesity, intellectual disabilities can make it hard to get the support you need. Talk to your doctor about some ways you can care for your long-term health.
Healthy Habits: Taking Care of You
Good health is about much more than how much you weigh. There are ways to stay active, healthy, and happy, no matter your body type.
Here are some ways you can take care of your health as an adult living with an intellectual disability and obesity:
Physical Fitness
Being active is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for anybody. Find ways to move your body that feel good.
Physical fitness for adults with disabilities can look different for everyone. It all depends on your access, comfort, and enjoyment.
Activities like yoga, calisthenics, and simple cardio routines can all be done in your own space on your own time.
For a more social experience, group workout classes or local sports leagues are usually available in small groups. They can be a great way to get out of the house in a setting that’s accessible and flexible for all fitness levels.
Dance, aerobics classes, and team sports are all engaging ways to get moving with other people looking to have fun.
Eating A Well-Rounded Diet
There’s a lot of talk about “healthy” eating when it comes to fitness. But there are many ways to include more nutritious foods in your meals. It’s important to have variety in your diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein.
Eating well can be challenging, especially if you have a hard time trying new foods. There are lots of different ways to prepare and add flavor to foods to make them more enjoyable.
You may need to try some new things before you find what works for you. Feeding your body nutritious food will help you feel your best, mentally and physically.
Smoothies, salads, and stir-fry dishes are great ways to get more vegetables into your daily meals. There are also tasty powders and vitamin supplements you can use if you feel you aren’t getting enough from your food.
Fun Activities
Being “healthy” isn’t just about your weight and diet. Taking care of your mental, emotional, and social needs is equally important. Finding activities that make you feel happy and fulfilled is key to living your best life.
Getting outside, getting moving, and getting active in ways that feel good is what healthy habits are all about.
Whether you prefer going for walks with family, doing a kickboxing class with friends, or practicing some yoga poses on your own, there’s no wrong way to get your body moving!
NeuroNav is Here to Help You Meet Your Goals
Living a healthy lifestyle with a disability may be tricky sometimes, but it’s definitely not impossible. Having the right support and services to guide you when you need help can also make things easier.
For eligible Californians, the Self-Determination Program (SDP) can support you in making decisions about what matters most to you. NeuroNav is your source for SDP information and guidance, whether you’re new to the program or already enrolled.
Our independent facilitation services are here to make it easier for you to set and meet your goals. Sign up for a free consultation and see how Nuronav can support your self-determination journey.
