Change in function in activities of daily living associated with lower community participation for adults with Down syndrome

Adults with Down syndrome have demonstrated lower rates of community participation, which is known to reflect a poorer quality of life. This cross-sectional study used survey data completed by 27 care partners of adults with Down syndrome to understand if lower community participation was associated with a recent decreased independence in activities of daily living.Decreased independence in activities of daily living were examined using the NTG-Early Detection Screen for Dementia. The frequency of participation was reported using the Guernsey Community Participation and Leisure Assessment.All changes in activities of daily living showed statistically significant associations with lower participation. Decreased independence in dressing was most strongly associated with a lower frequency of visiting museums (ρ=-0.533, p = .006).Decreased independence in activities of daily living may be useful clinical indicators of lower community participation.