Pilot Study on the Effects of Equine-Assisted Therapy on Quality of Life in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the impact of equine-assisted therapy on the quality of life of children aged 8 to 12 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD and their families. This interventional, prospective, and monocentric pilot study aims to assess the feasibility of a larger, more rigorous trial. It focuses on measuring changes in quality of life using the PedsQL1 4.0 questionnaire for children and parents and the PAR-DD-QOL questionnaire for parents, along with a qualitative analysis of childrens progress in communication, motor skills, and social connections. Participants will receive 15 equine therapy sessions, conducted twice a week over 7 to 8 weeks. Each 60-minute session includes activities such as emotional expression, grooming, contact with the horse, exercises on foot or horseback, and debriefing. The study begins with participant selection, consent, and explanation, followed by the therapy sessions conducted at the equine therapy center of La Musse Hospital. Throughout the study, quality of life is assessed five times using questionnaires completed by children and parents before and after selected therapy sessions. Equine therapists will also complete tracking sheets to monitor childrens behavioral progress. Researchers will analyze these scores and progress reports to understand the therapys effects. Participants can withdraw at any time, and strategies like reminders and scheduling aim to support adherence to the therapy program.

Impact of Equine-Assisted Therapy on the Quality of Life of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)