Melissa Savage Source Confirmed

Affiliation confirmed via AI analysis of OpenAlex, ORCID, and web sources.

High Impact

Assistant Professor

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

faculty

23 h-index 72 pubs 3,789 cited

Research Areas

Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Physical Activity and Health Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Species Distribution and Climate Change Meta-analysis and systematic reviews Behavioral Health and Interventions

Links

ORCID Lab Website

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OverviewAI-generated summary

Melissa Savage's research program investigates evidence-based practices and interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Her work focuses on improving quality of life and promoting physical activity within these populations. Recent publications have examined the effectiveness of supported self-management and technology, such as Fitbit devices, to increase physical activity levels in adults with ASD and IDD. She has also explored the experiences of adults with IDD in fitness programs, considering their capabilities, opportunities, and motivation.

Beyond human health, Savage also conducts research on wildlife conservation, specifically focusing on otter species. Her work includes assessing the vulnerability of Himalayan otter species to land use and climate change, and predicting the distribution and habitat suitability of the smooth-coated otter in Nepal. This research contributes to understanding the ecological needs and conservation challenges faced by these animals.

Savage's scholarship metrics include an h-index of 23, with over 72 publications and more than 3,789 citations, designating her as a highly cited researcher. She collaborates with Jing-chuan Wu and Megan York at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, with whom she has co-authored five publications each. Savage maintains an active lab website to disseminate her research.

Metrics

h-index: 23
Publications: 72
Citations: 3,789

Selected Publications

Physical Activity, Wearable Devices, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (PsycInfo). (2025) DOI
Physical Activity, Wearable Devices, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (PubMed). (2025) DOI
Physical Activity, Wearable Devices, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (SPORTDiscus). (2025) DOI
Physical Activity, Wearable Devices, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (CINAHL). (2025) DOI
Physical Activity, Wearable Devices, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (Web of Science). (2025) DOI
Capability, opportunity, and motivation to engage in physical activity for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A scoping review (2024) DOI