The GLOW Lab

Welcome to The GLOW Lab,

Guiding Lifelong Opportunities for Wellness in IDD

The GLOW Lab, led by Dr. Alyssa M. Smith at the University of Arizona, advances health equity and chronic disease prevention for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their care partners. Our research integrates community-based participatory methods, integrative health and wellness practices, and person-centered communication to improve health, reduce stress, and foster lifelong wellness.

Through mixed-methods research, our team collaborates with individuals with IDD, direct support professionals, families, and community organizations to co-design scalable, inclusive health promotion programs that work in real-world settings.

We believe in a future where every person, regardless of ability, has the tools, support, and community needed to thrive in health and wellness.