Dr Nora Shields and Prof Nick Taylor are research physiotherapists working for La Trobe University. They are running a study to find out if community-based programs for young people with Down Syndrome can improve in their strength and performance in certain physical activities.
What is involved?
Your child would be allocated at random to either an exercise group or an arts/social group.
The exercise group participants will be teamed up with a student mentor. This will be a physiotherapy student who will exercise with your child at a local gym, twice a week for 10 weeks for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The days and times of training will be decided in consultation with you.
The arts/social group participants will also be teamed up with a student mentor. This will be a physiotherapy student who will meet with your child at your home or a community venue, once a week for 10 weeks for approximately 90 minutes. The days and times of these sessions will be decided in consultation with you.
The strength of your child will be measured before they start the program, after it finishes and again 3 months after the program.
How much will it cost?
The researchers will cover the cost of both programs and will contribute a small amount towards the cost of travel associated with the project.
Who will be taking part?
Young people with Down Syndrome aged 14-22 years and physiotherapy students.
Who is organising this study?
Dr Nora Shields and Prof Nick Taylor are research physiotherapists working for La Trobe University. Elin Wee is a physiotherapist who is the research officer in this project. They are working together with Down Syndrome Victoria to run this project.
Further Information
If you are interested in taking part or have any further questions contact Elin Wee on (03) 9479 5258 or e.wee@latrobe.edu.au
