The impact of physical activity and sport programs on community participation for people with intellectual disability: A systematic review

Background: This review examined the impact of participation in an intentional physical activity or sport program on community participation and inclusion for people with intellectual disability. Method: Five electronic databases (PsychINFO, PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, AMED) were systematically searched for papers relating to intellectual disability, intentional physical activity, and community inclusion. Results: There were nine eligible papers reporting on seven unique studies conducted in North America, Europe and Australia. Interventions ranged from Special Olympics to an exercise and health education program. Peers without intellectual disability were involved in several programs, and the development of friendships was common among participants with and without disability: these were rarely transferred to the wider community. Conclusions: The identified programs involved substantial commitment of people and infrastructure to support people with intellectual disability in intentional physical activity programs. There was little evidence these programs improved community participation and inclusion for people with intellectual disability.

Automated summary

The review found that while some friendships were developed among participants in intentional physical activity programs, and some programs involved peers without disabilities, these friendships were rarely extended to the wider community.