The Feldenkrais Method improves functioning and body balance in people with intellectual disability in supported employment: A randomized clinical trial

摘要

Highlights ? Adults with intellectual disability (ID) show age-related loss of functioning earlier than non-disabled people. ? Middle-aged adults with mild-to-moderate ID had a similar functional status to non-disabled people older than 71 years. ? Middle-aged adults with mild-to-moderate ID had poorer balance than healthy non-disabled people. ? Middle-aged adults with mild-to-moderate ID improved their functioning and balance after Feldenkrais method classes. Abstract Loss of functioning and age-related health problems tend to appear earlier in individuals with intellectual disability (ID) than in their non-disabled peers. The Feldenkrais method (FM) is a movement-based form of learning that enhances body balance and physical functioning. We carried out an intervention based on Awareness Through Movement, a form of the FM. Thirty-two middle-aged (48.94±6.01years old) adults with ID who were in supported employment were recruited and randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG) or control group (CG). The EG received 30 Awareness Through Movement classes while the CG did not receive any movement-based intervention. Physical functioning (body balance, gait speed and chair stands) was assessed with the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and balance by stabilometry. After 30 FM classes, individuals in the EG had significantly improved their chair stand test score (p