# Effect of Verbal Encouragement on Postural Balance in Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

## TL;DR

Verbal encouragement improves balance in individuals with mild intellectual disabilities during static and dynamic balance tasks.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates that verbal encouragement can enhance balance performance in individuals with mild intellectual disabilities.

## Key findings

- Verbal encouragement reduced center of pressure mean velocity in mild IDs during static balance tests.
- Mild IDs showed improved Y Balance Test scores and Expanded Timed Up-and-Go Test performance with verbal encouragement.
- Verbal encouragement positively impacts balance in challenging postural tasks for individuals with mild IDs.

## Abstract

This study investigated the effect of verbal encouragement (VE) on static and dynamic balance in individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs). A total of 13 mild IDs and 12 moderate IDs participants underwent static balance tests (bipedal stance on firm surface, under open eyes (OEs) and closed eyes (CEs), and foam surface, unipedal stance on firm surface) and dynamic balance assessments (Y Balance Test (YBT) and Expanded Timed Up-and-Go Test (ETUGT)) under VE and no VE (NO/VE) conditions. VE significantly reduced center of pressure mean velocity (CoPVm) values for mild IDs in firm bipedal CEs conditions. The mild IDs group exhibited improved YBT scores and enhanced ETUGT performances for both groups under VE. Incorporating VE as a motivational strategy in balance training interventions can positively impact static and dynamic balance in individuals with mild IDs, especially in challenging conditions like unipedal stances on firm surfaces.