A Visual Cookbook: Increasing Independence in the Kitchen for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Presenter

Sarah J. Butler

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Ellen Correa, Department of Civic Engagement & Service-Learning, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 5, 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C23, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 3 (C21-C30) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Up to 24% of the U.S. population has a disability (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023); these can range from needing little support to intensive care. I plan to create a tool for people with intellectual disabilities to become more independent in the kitchen at their level. People with intellectual disabilities often report a feeling of a lack of independence daily. They may not have control, whether that be picking out what to do or what to eat. When someone lacks independence, they can feel stuck and frustrated. Along with the physiological effects nutrition has on people with disabilities, another factor is the physical health that can be affected: increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Through this project, I want to create a plan to help alleviate some of the pressure people with disabilities may feel when in the kitchen and increase their understanding of the importance of nutrition. I have partnered with Whole Children, part of the Pathlight organization, where they offer small group classes with different areas of interest while incorporating a focus on social skill practice. Pathlights' mission is to create opportunities and build relationships for people with varying abilities. My project focuses on creating a visual cookbook with step-by-step instructions to make various healthy food options. This project will teach me more about the power of nutrition in a marginalized group. My goal for this project is to create a cookbook full of fun recipes anyone can use for many years. 

Keywords

Disabilities , Indpendence, Nutrition , Civic Engagement

Research Area

Disability Studies

SIMILAR ABSTRACTS (BY KEYWORD)