PACE Invites Scholars for Program Boosting Disabled Adults’ Fitness

Photo Submitted

Promoting Physical Activity in Adults with Disabilities

Despite acknowledging the numerous health benefits of physical activity, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities seem to have a lack of participation in effective exercise programs. This is where Melissa Savage, an assistant professor of special education, in collaboration with the University of North Carolina, steps in to provide support through PACE — Physical Activity and Community Empowerment. This initiative is backed by a generous five-year, $3.5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.

Collaboration with the University of North Carolina

Savage is teaming up with Brianne Tomaszewski, an assistant professor at the University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism Program in the Department of Psychiatry, and Kara Hume, an associate professor in the College of Education at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

The PACE Program

PACE aims to enhance physical activity for adults with intellectual disabilities through a well-structured 16-week program. Participants will be empowered to select and schedule preferred activities, track their progress using technology, and also attend a weekly, community-based exercise class in an inclusive setting with trained exercise professionals.

Research and Community Engagement

Research visits will be hosted at the University of Arkansas Exercise Science Research Center. A weekly community fitness class will also be conducted at the Jones Center in Springdale and is open to all participants and community members.

Importance of the PACE Program

“This initiative can offer crucial insights into assisting adults with intellectual disabilities to participate in physical activities both at home and within the community,” mentions Savage. She further emphasizes the significance of their partnership with the Jones Center and how it can pave the way for future efforts in developing inclusive community fitness programs.

Recruitment and Participation

The Arkansas site is set to begin participant recruitment later in March. Savage is currently in the process of hiring part-time research assistants and a full-time postdoctoral research scholar to join the PACE team. Applications for these positions are currently being reviewed.

Should you require more information about PACE or have specific questions regarding the research assistant or postdoctoral research scholar positions, feel free to reach out to Melissa Savage at mns029@uark.edu.