The Role of Physical Activity Participation Models in Improving Caregiving Burden Among Parents of Individuals with Special Needs

This cross-sectional study uses a relational survey model to examine the caregiver burden of parents of individuals with special needs across diagnostic groups, developmental periods, and physical activity models. Participants included 181 parents (153 mothers, 28 fathers). Data collected via a Personal Information Form and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, Chi-square, and Hayes’ Process (Model 1). Results showed that caregiver burden significantly differs by diagnosis, peaking in parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (Mean= 51.35, p= .012). Regarding developmental stages, parents in the preschool (0-6 years) group reported significantly higher burden than those in the childhood (7-12 years) group (p= .044). Regression analysis revealed that physical activity acts as a "direct intervention tool" for high-risk groups, such as college-educated parents, rather than a "moderating" mechanism (p= .919). Specifically, for parents with a bachelor’s degree, the "Together Active" model significantly reduced burden (p= .026). Conversely, when only the individual with special needs was active, burden remained high, a finding attributed to the "Waiting Room Paradox" proposed in this study. In conclusion, physical activity models are critical predictors of time pressure and caregiver burden. It is of vital importance to restructure rehabilitation processes with exercise programs that transition parents from passive waiting to active participation.