Daily Activities, Exercise and Endurance in Down Syndrome

Abstract

Given the increased prevalence of overweight and obesity in Down syndrome (DS) and known barriers to exercise and physical activity, we surveyed caregivers on these topics in a health survey. We aimed to explore how different daily activities, exercise and endurance contribute to overall health status in DS. As part of a broader study creating a valid, reliable health measure in DS, we surveyed caregivers of individuals ages 0–21 with DS. This study summarizes descriptive statistics (mean, frequencies, distributions) on survey item responses related to daily activities, exercise, and endurance. We compared 56 item level responses to overall health score through point-biserial or Spearman correlation coefficients. From February 2023 to February 2024, we received 542 complete survey responses from a nationally-represented sample. We present caregiver-reported information on daily activities and exercise, and demonstrate that caregivers perceive individuals with DS to have difficulty with endurance (keeping up with peers, keeping up with family and running same distance as peers). Thirty-five correlations were significant at Bonferroni corrected p < 0.00089; better health correlated with increased endurance, increased engagement, higher physical activity level, among others. Increased support of accessible programming is one way to accomplish health goals through increased exercise and engagement. Future work is needed to better understand caregiver-perceived endurance of their sons and daughters with DS. Trial Registration: Clinical Trials Number: NCT04631237; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04631237.