Evaluation of the Special Olympics Team Wellness health promotion program for individuals with intellectual disabilities

Introduction: Individuals with intellectual disabilities are a known health disparities group. The Team Wellness (TW) health promotion program was developed to provide healthy lifestyle information to target this population. The purpose of this study was to conduct a qualitative program evaluation on Team Wellness. Methods: Interviews were conducted via one-on-one format with program coaches (n = 4, mean age = 25, female = 2, male = 2) and focus group with program athletes (n = 6, mean age = 45, female = 4, male = 2) who completed the TW program. Results: Themes that emerged included: (1) Program Perceptions; (2) TW Support; and (3) Program Feedback. Program perceptions were positive and continued athlete participation was anticipated. Coaches felt prepared to facilitate based on previous experience though program fidelity varied. Conclusion: Study participants enjoyed TW and identified valuable recommendations. Program fidelity and marketing efforts are important for future consideration. Further quantitative assessment is needed to determine the effectiveness the program.