Physical activity, cultural tourism and social inclusion for persons with Down Syndrome

Dana Ioana Cristea, Department of Physical Education, Sport and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Geography, Tourism and Sport, University of Oradea, Oradea, RomaniaFollow
Anca Cristina Pop, Department of Physical Education, Sport and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Geography, Tourism and Sport, University of Oradea, Oradea, RomaniaFollow
Corina Florina Tătar, Department of Geography, Tourism and Territorial Planning, Faculty of Geography, Tourism and Sport, University of Oradea, Oradea, RomaniaFollow
Raluca Buhaș, Department of Sociology and Social Work, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Oradea, Oradea, RomaniaFollow
Dariusz Jacek Olszewski-Strzyżowski, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdansk, Poland
Mirela Ștef, Department of Physical Education, Sport and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Geography, Tourism and Sport, University of Oradea, Oradea, RomaniaFollow

Abstract

Background: Individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) need customized attention. By providing an inclusive environment and tailored cultural support, meaningful and enjoyable tourism experiences can be created for them. Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the daily energy expenditure of DS individuals after undertaking a walking tour and the impact on their physical activity level. Methods: In the current study, three questionnaires were completed by the DS participants and their parents to assess the walking tour satisfaction level and social integration, the daily energy expenditure as a result of walking depending on an adapted cultural route, and the energy balance. The study was conducted among a group of 35 DS volunteer individuals, 23 female and 12 male persons. The energy input, energy expenditure and the energy balance of the subjects were calculated. Results: The total energy intake was 2515 ± 427 Kcal, and the energy consumption 2418 ± 406 Kcal. The questionnaire regarding the tourist route reveals a significant increase in daily energy expenditure 2403 ± 397 Kcal p < 0,01, the difference being significant, p < 0.01, after applying the T-test. There also was a significant increase in the energy balance, p < 0.01. Conclusions: The findings from this study highlight the possibility of increasing energy consumption by walking on cultural tours adapted to persons with DS.

Recommended Citation

Cristea DI, Pop A-C, Tatar C-F, Buhas R, Olszewski-Strzyzowski DJ, Stef M. Physical activity, cultural tourism and social inclusion for persons with Down Syndrome. Balt J Health Phys Act. 2025;17(3):Article1. DOI: 10.29359/BJHPA.17.3.01