Underweight, obesity and exercise among adults with intellectual disabilities in supported accommodation in Northern England.

Zuriff (2005) visited supported-living homes across Northern England. Staff helped adults with intellectual disability answer questions about weight, height and exercise. The team compared the numbers to general UK norms.

More adults were underweight than in the general public. Women with ID were also more likely to be obese. Most residents did little or no exercise.

Hsieh et al. (2015) later showed the same weight and activity gaps across the whole UK, not just the North. They added that risk rises as people age.

Mikulovic et al. (2014) gave a practical twist: adults who wake and sleep early move more and weigh less, even in the same homes.

Laxton et al. (2026) used wrist sensors and clocked almost eight sedentary hours a day in similar group homes. Lower daily-living skills predicted longer sitting bouts.

Together the papers paint one clear picture: where people live matters, but daily rhythm and skill level shape weight and activity just as much as the address.

Check BMI and activity at intake, then keep checking. Note wake and sleep times—early risers are easier to engage in movement. Target people who need the most help with dressing or cooking; they sit the longest. Build short walks or chores into morning routines before staff shift change. These quick screens and tweaks cost nothing and can stop weight issues before they start.