Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

PhD

College

College of Applied Human Sciences

Department

Physical Education Teacher Education

Committee Chair

Jeanette Garcia

Committee Co-Chair

Emily Murphy

Committee Member

Emily Murphy

Committee Member

Eloise Elliott

Committee Member

David Rice

Committee Member

Xiaoxia Zhang

Abstract

Abstract Feasibility of a Motor Skill Intervention for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Candace Brink Adults with intellectual disabilities experience significantly lower levels of physical activity and a higher prevalence of obesity-related health conditions compared to neurotypical adults. Furthermore, motor competency has been identified as a barrier to physical activity participation amongst this population. Purpose: The purpose of this feasibility study was to evaluate the viability of implementing an adapted version of an evidence-based physical activity program originally developed for senior citizens, Silver Sneakers. This adapted program, Kicking Off Purple Sneakers, was designed to enhance motor competency and promote engagement in functional movements critical for activities of daily living. The study assessed feasibility across multiple dimensions, including acceptability, demand, implementation fidelity, practicality, adaptability, expansion, integration, and preliminary efficacy. Design: A convergent parallel mixed-methods, quasi-experimental design was employed to evaluate feasibility according to Bowen’s Model of Feasibility. A total of 28 participants were included, with 12 in the experimental group and 16 in the control group. Quantitative measures included pre- and post-test assessments using the Senior Fitness Test, while qualitative data were collected through participant interviews, staff surveys, and observational checklists. A Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was used to analyze within-group changes, as normality assumptions were not met. Results: Results demonstrated high feasibility, with 100% acceptability, strong participant engagement, and successful program integration within an existing community-based organization. Attendance rates exceeded feasibility benchmarks, and both participants and staff expressed a strong interest in continued participation. However, there were no significant improvements in motor competency as measured by the Senior Fitness Test, likely due to the short program duration (six weeks), small sample size, and potential limitations of the assessment tool. Conclusion: Findings highlight the importance of social support, enjoyment, and functional movement integration in physical activity interventions for adults with intellectual disabilities. This study underscores the need for longer-duration interventions, the development of motor competency assessments tailored to adults with intellectual disabilities, and future efficacy trials to assess long-term outcomes. Future research should explore the bidirectional relationship between motor competency and physical activity participation and its implications for obesity prevention within this population. By refining and expanding Kicking Off Purple Sneakers, community-based programs can better support the functional independence and physical health of adults with intellectual disabilities.

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