• 3200 Mountain View Dr. Anchorage, AK 99501
  • Phone: 1-907-222-7625
  • info@specialolympicsalaska.org
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Healthy Athletes

Helping Special Olympics Alaska athletes stay healthy, compete confidently, and live healthier lives through free health screenings and education

About Healthy Athletes

The Healthy Athletes® initiative is a health screening and education program designed specifically for people with intellectual disabilities. Volunteer healthcare providers deliver screenings throughout the year during Special Olympics sporting events, helping athletes identify health concerns, receive referrals when needed, and learn healthy habits that improve performance both on and off the field.

Since launching in 1997, Healthy Athletes has grown into the world’s largest health program dedicated to people with intellectual disabilities. Every screening is provided free of charge to participating Special Olympics athletes.

4
out of every 10 athletes have untreated tooth decay.

4
out of every 10 athletes need eyeglasses.

3
out of every 10 athletes would fail a hearing screening.

7
out of every 10 athletes are overweight or obese.

Healthy Athletes Disciplines

Fit Feet®

Podiatry screenings that evaluate foot and ankle health, gait, footwear, and provide recommendations that help athletes remain active safely.

FUNfitness®

Physical therapy screenings focused on flexibility, balance, strength, posture, and functional movement.

Strong Minds™

Emotional wellness resources that help athletes develop coping skills, resilience, and strategies for managing stress.

Healthy Hearing

Hearing screenings conducted by volunteer audiologists with referrals for additional care when necessary.

Opening Eyes®

Vision screenings performed by eye care professionals, including referrals and, when available, prescription eyewear.

Special Smiles®

Dental screenings and education promoting lifelong oral health and preventive care.

Health Promotion

Nutrition education, healthy lifestyle coaching, blood pressure screening, and wellness information tailored to athletes.

MedFest®

Comprehensive sports physicals and medical evaluations that help athletes become medically cleared to compete.

Become an Inclusive Health Provider

Healthcare professionals and students are invited to volunteer with Healthy Athletes and help create a
more inclusive healthcare system for people with intellectual disabilities.


Inclusive Health Manager
Emily Vandergon
emily2@specialolympicsalaska.org

Special Olympics Alaska provides year-round sports training and

athletic competition for children
and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout Alaska.