Promoting Health Behaviors Among Latina Caregivers of Children With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Through Goal Setting

Purpose This study explored the types of health-related goals, the strategies employed, and challenges experienced by Latina caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Design This study focuses on exploratory data on goal setting obtained through qualitative observations and documentation of the intervention arm from a two-site RCT. Setting & Sample Twenty-six Latina caregivers were recruited and assigned to receive the intervention across 2 sites—Texas and Illinois. Intervention A 10-session culturally tailored health promotion intervention was delivered to participants by promotoras addressing caregivers’ wellness, physical activity, healthy eating, and navigating the environment and decision-making. Goal setting was incorporated throughout the intervention. Promotoras worked closely with participants to develop action plans and provided support as needed. Measure To analyze qualitative data, we used a deductive analytical approach based on transcript discussions and early data extraction. Qualitative data were categorized into types of goals, strategies used, subcategories, and barriers encountered. Results Twenty caregivers identified a total of 68 goals; 61.7% were achieved or in progress. Health promotion strategies included engaging in physical activity, changing nutrition/eating habits, participating in wellness activities, and using reminders. Caregivers experienced stress, feeling overwhelmed, and a lack of support. Conclusion This study has some limitations, which are fully discussed. Despite the challenges they experienced, caregivers achieved or reported progress towards most of their goals.