Theory-based interviews with adults with mild-moderate learning disabilities and carers - implications for intervention development

Aim: Adults with mild-moderate intellectual disabilities (ID) have poorer diets and participate less in physical activity than adults in the general population. The current study aimed to gather perspectives of this group and their carers on how uptake of healthy eating and physical activity could be improved amongst adults with ID. Method: Qualitative interview study with 12 adults with ID and 12 carers using a Social Cognitive Theory based approach to understand their current behaviour and how to support behaviour change effectively with this group. Results: Participants reported that adults with ID may be more responsive to subjective, experiential benefits of health behaviours, including improved energy levels, mood and digestion than abstract changes in weight or muscle mass. Mastery of practical goals potentially leading to employment, purposeful activities and recognition of effort was also considered important. Fostering trust and rapport in their relationships with carers and providing training to carers on health promotion and management of challenging behaviour would also increase intervention effectiveness.Conclusion: Behaviour change interventions with adults with mild-moderate ID may be improved by tailoring content to their needs and involving carers in health promotion programmes.