Helsel, Brian PHD

Physical activity can benefit brain health by reducing the risk of dementia, improving cognition, and enhancing sleep quality in typically developed adults, but less is known about the impact of physical activity on brain health in adults with Down syndrome. The aim of this research is to develop and validate an objective assessment of physical activity in adults with Down syndrome using portable accelerometers before exploring the impact of physical activity on plasma biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive function, and sleep quality in adults with Down syndrome. This study will inform future physical activity research focused on preventing, delaying, or slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in adults with Down syndrome and has the potential to be transferable to other health-related outcomes in this population.