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.
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.
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