Healthy LEAP Program: Special Olympics

Lindsey Marie Connolly

(Updated February 10th)
Phase 1
Description of the issue:

Students who are participating in special olympics programs all around the
country often do not have access to adaptive primary health education or nutritious
foods. It has also been observed that a large quantity of mentally and/or physically
handicapped students are overweight or obese. This Healthy LEAP program through
the special olympics works to educate this particular at risk population in basic health
and hygiene, as well as provide them with healthy eating tips easy to do physical activity
that can be tailored to their specific needs and abilities.

Product:

I will document the overall process that I go through each week, including a
summary of what the general lesson was about, as well as my specific contributions. I
will have documentation that I was present at all meetings, as well as the special
olympics themselves. (signatures/sign ins/excursion forms, photos, journals et.) i will
compile those on a website as well as a prezi.

Source #1:
CDC- Disability and Obesity- Facts

36% of all adults with disabilities are obese vs. 23% of those without
22% of children with disabilities are obese vs. 16% of those without
Challenges facing a disabled person that affect their health include:
1. Lack of Healthy food and drink choices
2. Lack of accessible environments
3. Medications may influence weight gain
4. Difficulty chewing or swallowing
5. Physical limitations or pain
6. Lack of energy
7. Lack of resources