Unstoppable Together: Expanding Inclusive Health for Youth with Intellectual Disabilities Through Sport and Play

Approximately 200 million people globally have an intellectual disability (ID) (Geukes et al., 2019). It is estimated that people with ID are two to four times less likely to meet the WHO physical activity guidelines, when compared to the general population (Oviedo et al., 2017), due to various barriers to participation, including limitations in accessibility and social support. Children and adolescents with ID experience additional barriers in accessing physical activity contributing to lower levels of fitness, reduced rates of participation, and a higher prevalence of obesity. It is estimated that only 24% of children with disabilities engage in 60 minutes of physical activity daily. (Carbone et al., 2021). Additionally, people with ID have higher rates of secondary disabilities and other health problems; specifically, young children with ID tend to have poorer and more delayed motor and social skill development, limiting their ability to access physical activity and movement (Kashi et al., 2023). Thus, children and adolescents with ID represent an important priority for advancing physical activity, movement, and specialized care such as physical therapy. This session highlights the health and fitness needs of children and adolescents with ID, while showcasing the variety of programming available to support these individuals through Special Olympics. Awareness of these programs expands access to play, sport, and health services, while also supporting community and health professionals through increased education and collaboration resources. Attendees will learn how to engage and support youth with ID through their own networks and further connect with Special Olympics locally.