Prevention of falls for adults with intellectual disability (PROFAID): a feasibility study

Purpose: A novel physiotherapy intervention for people with intellectual disability (ID) to improve balance was developed and evaluated in a feasibility study which quantitatively assessed potential benefits on measures of balance, gait and activity participation, and qualitatively explored its acceptability, utility and feasibility. Methods: Participants were 27 adults with mild to profound ID (mean age 53 years SD 10.9). We used a mixed methods approach: an uncontrolled before-after study (data analysed with the related samples sign test) and a qualitative interview evaluation (data analysed with the general inductive approach). Balance, gait and participation were assessed at baseline and 6 months after introduction of the physiotherapy intervention with four standardised measures and two questionnaires. Results: Appropriate exercises and a physical activity could be found for all participants, irrespective of the level of ID, although for many this required a high level of assistance from support staff. Only the Balance Scale for ID changed significantly by a median score of 2 (95% CI = 0.00-2.50, p = 0.04). No other outcomes changed significantly. Four themes emerged: Understanding the intervention''; "Routine and reality''; "Remembering what I have to do'' and "What happens beyond the study itself''? Conclusions: The findings provide some evidence for the benefit, acceptability, utility and feasibility of the intervention justifying further evaluation.