کد مقاله | کد نشریه | سال انتشار | مقاله انگلیسی | نسخه تمام متن |
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6238654 | 1278900 | 2015 | 8 صفحه PDF | دانلود رایگان |
BackgroundIndividuals with disabilities are at higher risk of health conditions; thus, there is a need to provide hands-on opportunities for pre-healthcare professionals to interact with individual with disabilities as well as deliver wellness services to this population.ObjectiveExamine the feasibility and effectiveness of a student-led wellness program for individuals with disabilities.MethodsThirty-two undergraduate student wellness coaches between the ages of 19-23 years, and fifteen participants with disabilities, ranging in ages from 28 to 74 years were included in this study. Every participant was assigned to at least 1 student wellness coach with the purpose of establishing an individualized wellness plan.ResultsAfter 3 months (fall 2013 academic semester), all wellness coaches demonstrated improved clinical interaction and confidence toward working with the participants. The participants had an average weight loss of 2.0 ± 2.9 kg, ranging from 0.0 to 9.0 kg. All participants had improved functionality and fitness and reported high satisfaction toward the program.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated the impact of a unique program on the education of pre-healthcare professionals and the overall wellness of participants with disabilities. The program model has the potential to provide clinical health education among pre-healthcare professionals through interacting with individuals with disabilities.
Journal: Disability and Health Journal - Volume 8, Issue 3, July 2015, Pages 345-352