Physical activity for aging persons with Down syndrome

Over the past several years, we have worked clinically with staff and administrators of residential care centers in Israel to conduct applied research and bridge the gap between academia and service oriented facilities. Our focus has been on the implimentation of physical activity programs for older persons with ID and older persons with DS to achieve better complience and increase their muscle strength and capabilities and prevent immobilisation and prolong the time where they will need nursing care. This to achieve better health and quality of life. With our studies we have shown, albeit with small number of participants, that it is possible to maintain good muscle strength and health with physical activity and treadmill activities in the growing population of older people with Down syndrome.