Preventing Diabetes in Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
For the past two years, The Arc of New Jersey was awarded grants by The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey for a Diabetes Awareness and Education
Project. The Project's objective is to raise awareness about the prevention and management of diabetes for persons with developmental disabilities, and it is
being spearheaded by the Mainstreaming Medical Care Program.
Data is not readily available on the incidence of diabetes specifically in persons with developmental disabilities, but the incidence among the general population is alarming:
- 17 million Americans have Diabetes, with 5.9 million unaware that they have the condition;
- 1,000,000 new cases are diagnosed annually;
- Diabetes is the leading cause of
o Blindness in adults
o End-stage renal disease
o Non-traumatic amputations
Although genetic risk factors can be involved, diabetes is closely linked to obesity and poor
nutrition, making persons in the disabilities' community especially vulnerable. Persons with developmental disabilities are frequently overweight and/or sedentary, in addition to the fact that many
of those living in group homes routinely stock up on high-calorie "junk food". Given theses statistics,
it is vital that education and resources are made available to self-advocates as well as staff and family
caregivers in an effort to raise awareness about the necessity for healthy food choices and regular exercise – the two primary factors proven to prevent or mitigate the onset of diabetes.
Extensive research, including collaboration with healthcare professionals from across the state,
culminated in June 2006 with the publishing of two versions of a Diabetes Prevention and Education Booklet, one earmarked for self-advocates and the other for staff and caregivers. Also, seminars were
offered for individuals with developmental disabilities and their caregivers all across the State.
In 2007 additional funds were provided to film the successful seminars so that this critical health
information could be distributed to individuals with developmental disabilities to view in their own homes and at their own pace. The "Diabetes: Prevention, Control and Management" DVD and VHS
tape are now available through The Arc of New Jersey. Also in 2007, funding from the Godfrey Oakley Prevention Fund of The Arc of the United States assisted in creating wallet size laminated cards
with tips on preventing and controlling diabetes.
The Arc is thrilled to be able to offer these booklets, DVDs, VHS tapes and wallet-sized tipcards
free of charge to service and advocacy agencies, healthcare professionals, individuals living with a
disability, and their families and other caregivers. If you or anyone you know would be interested in having or distributing these materials, please download an order form by clicking here or contact Diane Flynn.
Funding for this Project is Provided by The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey
The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey promotes health, well-being, and quality of life in New Jersey's communities. Priority areas include health, the arts and education..
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