Impact of a train-the-trainer program on the psychosocial health status of staff supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Research is limited concerning health promotion needs among staff in community-based agencies (CBAs) serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). While the Train-the-Trainer intervention is aimed at teaching staff to develop and implement health promotion programs in CBAs, this study examines the impact of the intervention on staff's psychosocial health status. Thirty-two staff in community-based agencies (CBAs) were given 8 hours of training to start and implement a 12-week physical activity and health education program personalized to the needs of their clients' with I/DD. Forty staff participants, (87% females, 13% males, M age = 45.5 years) were randomized into an intervention (n = 17) or control group (n = 13). The intervention group received an 8-hour Health Promotion Train-the-Trainer Program immediately prior to teaching a 12-week, 3 days/week, Health Promotion Program to adults with I/DD. Assessments were conducted immediately before and after the 12-week program. Using ANCOVA, compared to controls, the intervention group showed significant changes in psychosocial health status, including an increase in energy and psychological well being (F = 5.2, p = .03), less perceived pain (F = 3.4, p = .07), and increased exercise outcome expectations (F = 11.5, p = .002). Although not significant, intervention group had increased self-rated general health status, fewer exercise barriers, and greater self-efficacy to exercise regularly. Results support the benefits of health education to staff in improving their own health status; and, the need to develop programs and policies supporting health promotion interventions staff in CBAs supporting adults with I/DD.