Research shows that individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities often die 25 years earlier than the general population.  These individuals often find it more difficult to eat healthy, control their weight and be physically active.  They also may not have access to appropriate, local medical services.

Therefore, the McLean County Board for Care and Treatment of Persons with a Developmental Disability (377 Board) and the McLean County Health Department in partnership with Carle Health & Fitness Center, Carle BroMenn Medical Center and the Advocate Charitable Foundation have developed an integrated, preventative health care project for individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities in our community.

Participants in this program receive free memberships to the Carle Health & Fitness Center, where a highly credentialed fitness professional will develop an individualized fitness program based off of their needs.  Program participants also engage in group exercise classes and meet with a Registered Dietitian as part of a lifestyle modification program.

Since 2016, we have celebrated many positive outcomes of the program!

• Reduced length of average hospital stay for one participant by 5 days or an estimated savings of $92,500

• Decreased in psychiatric ER visits.  Three individuals went from 27 visits total in Year 1 to only 12 visits in Year 2

• 62% of participants have maintained or improved their cholesterol levels

• 58% of participants maintained or improved their waist circumference

• 43% of participants maintained or improved their glucose levels