The Effectiveness of Hippotherapy on Perceived Quality of Life for Preschool Aged Children with Down Syndrome through Parent Repor

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this case series research was to determine the effectiveness of hippotherapy (HPOT) on perceived quality of life for preschool-aged children with Down syndrome (DS) through parent or guardian report, following once weekly HPOT sessions for a duration of eight weeks.;METHODS: The parent / guardian version of the Kiddy KINDL was used to collect data on the perceived quality of life of preschool age children with DS through pre- and post-testing.;RESULTS: Each of the parent participants returned sets of pre- and post-data measures before and upon completion of eight weeks of HPOT. Results indicated two of the three preschoolers showed positive gains in quality of life based on the data gathered on the quality of life measure, Kiddy KINDL. All parent participants reported positive change in their child's enjoyment of being with other children.;CONCLUSION: This research supports the perceived positive impact of HPOT on quality of life. This study appears to be one of initial studies of HPOT and its effect on preschoolers, specifically for preschoolers with Down syndrome. It supports previous research on the positive impact of HPOT on quality of life, while also serving as a foundation for future researchers investigating quality of life and HPOT for preschoolers with Down syndrome.