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Changing diet and exercise habits can be challenging for anyone, including people with developmental disabilities.  According to numerous academic studies, obesity and inactivity are particularly common among people with developmental disabilities, who tend to experience more barriers to good health due to medication side-effects, mobility restriction and other issues. 

For this reason, the YAI Network’s education and training department has created “Healthy Habits for a Healthy Life,” the latest addition to its DVD training library. This DVD/CD-ROM combination is designed to help people with disabilities and caregivers make healthier choices, and is currently available in the YAI Training Store.

The DVD stresses the importance of health and weight management, and demonstrates simple ways to incorporate small lifestyle changes as part of everyday habits.

Melissa Benzuly is Coordinator of YAI’s Weight and Health Management Program, which was created with the assistance of the New York Community Trust.  She collaborated with a number of health and nutrition professionals at Premier HealthCare, a member of the YAI Network, in creating "Healthy Habits for a Healthy Life." 

“Many factors can contribute to a person’s weight, including environment, family history, and behavior or habits,” Melissa said. “This DVD focuses on a few basic habits and ideas that help people with developmental disabilities begin to take charge of their own health. By learning from the examples of the consumers in the DVD, viewers are encouraged to decide to get moving, eat well and reach a healthy weight.”

The information presented in the DVD is fun and interactive, and includes questions for the viewers to answer themselves. A preview of the DVD is available to view before purchasing.