Addressing Food and Nutrition Security Through Inclusive Strategies in Adults with Disabilities, Bogotá, 2023

Abstract

Introduction. Disability encompasses anatomical, physiological, cognitive, motor, or speech limitations, affecting daily activities and social interaction. In adults with disabilities, ensuring food security presents challenges due to illiteracy and communication limitations, which require adaptations to conventional nutritional assessment tools.
Objective. To address food and nutrition security through inclusive educational strategies aimed at adults with cognitive disabilities, in order to design a comprehensive intervention adapted to their preferences, needs, and capabilities, within a foundation in Bogotá during the second half of 2023. Methodology. A mixed-methods study with an exploratory and descriptive approach was conducted. Surveys and adapted games were used to assess dietary and nutritional aspects; an educational activity was proposed that integrated theoretical concepts with physical exercises. Results. The study included 24 participants (61% men), with a mean age of 32 years (SD = 9.7). Participants showed food preferences for bakery products, cereals, and fruits; 57% reported daily consumption of vegetables, fruits, sugar, and panela. Regarding nutritional status, 42% had an adequate weight and 48% were overweight. Physical activity assessment indicated good cardiovascular endurance and aerobic capacity. The final intervention consisted of a strategy aimed at promoting nutritional learning and motivation for physical activity. Conclusions. People with cognitive disabilities tend to show good acceptance of the foods analyzed, which may act as a protective factor for their nutritional status. However, the lack of portion control and diet quality represents a risk factor for malnutrition, particularly considering the limited available data to evaluate nutritional and physical activity components.