Exercise is vitally important for adults with mental retardation. In many cases, adults with a mental disability have a number of physical deficits such as decreased function of the heart and lungs, and daily exercise can help improve their cardiovascular functioning. However, adults with mental retardation may have some physical limitations. Depending on the severity of the disability and for safety purposes, adults with a mental deficits should be monitored while exercising.
Stretching
Stretching exercises can improve spasticity, a condition found in some adults with mental retardation. Stretching can also help improve balance, which is important because many adults with a mental disability have more difficulty with balance than does the general population. Adults with mental retardation should stretch their legs and arms daily by sitting and stretching out their legs, reaching their fingers to their toes. Stretching poses should be held for 10 to 20 seconds with minimal movement.
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise is critical in adults with mental retardation who generally have some deficits in their cardiovascular system. This type of exercise can help improve heart and lung functions in adults with mental retardation. Aerobic exercise can also help shed body weight --- nearly one half of adults with mental retardation are obese compared with one third of the general population. Adults with mental retardation should engage in low level impact exercises such as walking, jogging, riding a stationary bike or aerobic dance at least 30 minutes for three times a week. The exact type of exercise will depend on the severity of mental retardation. Remember to start slow and gradually build up to that level.
Strength Training
Most people with mental retardation have lower levels of muscle strength than does the general population, which can be problematic for daily living, recreational activities and employment. Adults with mental retardation can use weights to improve bone health, muscle strength and increase daily functioning. Some individuals with mental retardation have muscle imbalance so weight training on all muscles can help restore balance to their body composition. Strength training should focus on the major muscles and include one set of exercises for each major muscle at least twice a week.
Precautions
Adults with mental retardation are likely to have medical concerns in addition to their mental disability. For adults with Down syndrome, a form of mental retardation, hypermobility and joint laxity are common problems. It is not recommended that individuals with these issues participate in stretching or flexibility training. Other issues for adults with mental retardation include an underdeveloped respiratory and cardiovascular system, poor balance and perceptual difficulties. Adults with mental retardation should be carefully monitored while exercising, take frequent breaks and drink water to prevent dehydration.
References
- The Arc: Aging, Mental Retardation and Physical Fitness; James H. Rimmer, Ph.D; November 1997
- NCPAD; Disability/Condition: Down Syndrome and Exercise; March 2007
- American Family Physician: Medical Care of Adults with Mental Retardation; Christopher D. Prater, MD and Robert G. Zyletra, LCSW, June 2006
- Your Orthopedic Connection: Physical Activity for Persons with Mental Retardation; October 2007
- Strength for Caring: Aging, Mental Retardation, and Physical Fitness; James H. Rimmer, Ph.D.
- Fitness Expert Network: Fitness and People with Mental Disabilities; Larry Johnston
