JOIN IN, GET MOTIVATED, AND CHANGE YOUR LIFE By Donna J. Flanery

Physical activity is beneficial to the health and welfare of an individual. This statement has more significance to the population of individuals with disabilities due to a higher level of health needs.

Individuals with disabilities generally have high medical needs due to chronic medical conditions and spend more time in the emergency rooms than individuals without disabilities.

Over the years, many studies have shown that increased physical activity can result in ……. Improved Health Mental Well-Being Sense of Worth or Purpose

Improved Health Fewer trips to the doctor Taking less medication More energy

Mental Well-Being Happier Fewer Behaviors A sense of belonging

Sense of Worth or Purpose I can attitude Learning new skills Developing relationships

Making a Choice It is important that an individual is involved in helping choose which activities he or she participates in. This allows the individual to take ownership in the activity and increases the chance of following through with the activity.

Challenges Transportation Lower incomes (physical activities are not a priority) Obesity (due to lack of physical activity) Medical Issues

How do we turn it around? Build relationships within the community (offer someone a ride) Find activities that the individual can JOIN IN for little or no cost Say “Yes, I can” Choose movement (exercise)

ARC of Bell County

What do we offer? Special Olympics Activities Dances Bingo Zumba Camp Funshine Demonstrations

What can you do in your neighborhood to get motivated? ZUMBA Demonstration

Change Your Life Don’t sit on the sidelines Find an activity that you like to do You don’t have to be perfect, participate as much as you can (Modify) Make a plan, follow it an see where you are in 6 months