Process evaluation of a cluster‐randomised controlled trial of multi‐component weight management programme in adults with intellectual disabilities and obesity

Background: Providing effective weight managementto adults with intellectual disabilitiesis necessary to challenge the high rates of obesity. The aim of this process evaluation was to explore the feasibility of conducting a full‐scaleclinical trial of the TAKE 5 multi‐component weight managementprogramme. Methods: The study was a 12‐month pilot cluster‐randomised controlled trial. Adults with intellectual disabilitiesand obesity were randomised to either TAKE 5, which included an energy deficit diet ( EDD) or Waist Winners Too, based on health education principles. A mixed‐methods process evaluation was conducted focussing on the reach, recruitment, fidelity, implementation, dose (delivered/received) and context. Results: The study successfully recruited adults with intellectual disabilities. Both weight managementprogrammes were delivered with high fidelity and implemented as intended. Only one weight managementprogramme, TAKE 5, demonstrated potential efficacy in reducing body weight and body composition. The effectiveness was largely attributed to the EDDand social support from carers. Conclusions: The extensive process evaluation illustrated that a full‐scaletrial of a multi‐component programme including an EDDis feasible and an acceptable approach to weight managementfor adults with intellectual disabilitiesand obesity.