INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Summary/Abstract: The quality of life of people with disabilities is influenced by their physical and mental health, but also by their relationship with the environment and the individuals with whom they interact. Down syndrome is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability, which involves mental, physical and behavioural health disorders. Although there are studies about quality of life in people with disabilities, we focused on adults with Down syndrome, more specifically, on how physical activity influenced their quality of life. For this, we used the International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short-Form (IPAQ-SF), which we supplemented with three questions that helped us to better capture the investigated aspects. The respondents were 50 caregivers of adults with intellectual disability, namely Down syndrome, whose average age was ± 22.3 years. Based on the responses received, we can state that 60% of the people with this condition had a moderate level of engagement in physical activity. For most of them, the preferred physical activities were dancing, walking and gymnastics; the expected effects of participating in these activities were related to emotional well-being (32%), psychological well-being (40%), self-confidence (10%) and physical well-being (17%). In order to maximise the involvement of people with disabilities, the proposed physical activities should be attractive, enjoyable and give them the opportunity to be with peers and friends.

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