Multi-stakeholder perspectives on perceived wellness of Special Olympics athletes.

BACKGROUND: Research to date with children and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) has previously focused upon specific aspects of health (e.g., physical activity, nutrition). A broader focus on 'wellness' takes a positive approach to health by addressing how individuals can lead meaningful lives by focusing on their unique strengths and resources across multiple wellness dimensions, rather than focusing on deficits.

OBJECTIVE: This study, conducted in partnership with Special Olympics (SO), aimed to understand the state of perceived wellness and wellness-promoting behaviours of children and youth with IDD from multi-stakeholder perspectives (i.e., SO athletes, caregivers, and coaches).

METHODS: A cross-sectional Likert survey methodology was employed to generate data on the perceptions of multiple stakeholders on different wellness dimensions identified through a literature review and consultations with SO stakeholders.

RESULTS: Athletes, caregivers and coaches generally agreed rather than disagreed with wellness statements, with the exception of coaches' responses regarding healthy nutrition. Athletes agreed more than caregivers and coaches that they engaged in some wellness promoting behaviours (i.e., calming oneself down, participating in their communities). Athletes and coaches were more likely to agree than caregivers about athletes' positive outlook.

CONCLUSION: Athletes' perceptions of their own wellness are unique from those of caregivers and coaches. Focusing on wellness can broaden understandings of how to support young people with IDD by drawing on their strengths and resources to foster optimal health and a sense of wellness in ways that are meaningful and relevant to them.