Effects of life kinetic exercises on motor skills and cognitive health in individuals with mild intellectual disabilities: a controlled study
International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2025
- Doi Number: 10.1080/20473869.2025.2514631
- Journal Name: International Journal of Developmental Disabilities
- Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Psycinfo
- Keywords: attention, BOT-2, Life kinetic exercise, mild intellectual disabilities, visual memory and perception
- Uşak University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of life-kinetic exercises on motor skills and cognitive health outcomes of individuals with mild intellectual disabilities (MID). A total of 18 individuals with MID aged 10–14 years participated in the study. The participants were divided into experimental (n = 9; 12.88 ± 1.54age) and control groups (n = 9; 11.55 ± 0.88age). Life kinetic applications were applied to the experimental group for 10 wk (40 min/3 d/10 wk). The d2 Attention Test, the Benton Visual Retention Test (BVRT), the Frostig Visual Perception Test, and the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-Second Edition were used as measurement tools. The post-test scores for bilateral coordination, upper limb coordination, balance, BVRT, total number, errors, total errors, concentration performance, eye-motor coordination, figure-ground discrimination, and Frostig visual perception total scores of the experimental group were statistically higher. The post-test means of bilateral coordination, upper limb coordination, balance, and BVRT were statistically higher than those of the control group. According to the results, life kinetic exercises were determined to be an alternative program for improving motor skills and cognitive health outcomes of individuals with MID. The findings may provide a useful basis for future intervention studies and those designing programs in special education centers.