DOI
https://doi.org/10.57709/36974342
Author ORCID Identifier
0009-0003-8905-9710
Date of Award
5-10-2024
Degree Type
Capstone Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Dr. Emily Buchman
Second Advisor
Dr. Carolyn Podolski
Abstract
Gigi’s Playhouse (Gigi’s) is an achievement center for individuals with Down Syndrome (DS), from birth to adulthood, and their families. Gigi’s provides resources, advocacy support, programming, and tutoring free of cost to families. Gigi’s Playhouse plays a significant role in supporting individuals and their families and encouraging connections between families and within the community.
It is well agreed upon across research that Down Syndrome manifests as complications of the neurological, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular systems, typically presenting as muscle hypotonia, intellectual disabilities, congenital heart defects, and short stature (Antonarakis et al., 2020; Mazurek & Wyka, 2015; Pikora et al., 2014; Stefanowicz-Bielska et al., 2022). Individuals with DS are also at a greater risk of developing other health conditions such as autoimmune diseases, sleep apnea, anxiety disorders, and recurrent infections (Antonarakis et al., 2020; Bosch, 2003; Covelli et al., 2018; Mazurek & Wyka, 2015; Pikora et al., 2014; Stefanowicz-Bielska et al., 2022). Gigi’s Playhouse understands the needs of individuals with Down Syndrome and has developed programs to increase independence and participation to support overall quality of life across the lifespan. After completing a needs assessment at Gigi’s Playhouse, it was discovered there was a gap in important health and wellness topics for young adult members, impacting their independence, participation and therefore, quality of life. This project aimed to address that need and further support the mission of Gigi’s Playhouse by bridging the gap to provide an evidence-based health and wellness program for the young adults at Gigi’s Playhouse.
Recommended Citation
Wooten, Erin B., "A Health and Wellness Program for Young Adults with Down Syndrome at GIGI's Playhouse: An Occupational-Therapy Based Perspective." , Georgia State University, 2024.
doi: https://doi.org/10.57709/36974342
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