Measuring the actual levels and patterns of physical activity/inactivity of adults with intellectual disabilities

Background Lack of regular physical activity is a significant risk to health. The aim of this study was to objectively measure the levels and patterns of activity of adults with intellectual disabilities, to inform the design of studies aimed at increasing activity and health in this population. Materials and Methods Interviews were conducted with 62 community-based adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities at the start and at the end of a 7-day period of physical activity/inactivity measurement using an activity monitor. Results Forty-one (66%) participants wore the activity monitor at least 5 days. Of these, only 11 (27%) achieved the recommended 10000 steps per day, and only six (15%) were achieving the recommended ≥30min of moderate/vigorous activity at least 5days per week. Conclusions Adults with mild to moderate learning disabilities have low levels of physical activity.