Moving together: The role of family co-participation in promoting physical activity among adults with autism
Article
Nunez-Gaunaurd, A, Tovin, MM, Kermah, D et al. (2026). Moving together: The role of family co-participation in promoting physical activity among adults with autism
. Disability and Health Journal, 10.1016/j.dhjo.2026.102115
Nunez-Gaunaurd, A, Tovin, MM, Kermah, D et al. (2026). Moving together: The role of family co-participation in promoting physical activity among adults with autism
. Disability and Health Journal, 10.1016/j.dhjo.2026.102115
Background: Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience high rates of physical inactivity and obesity, contributing to elevated cardiometabolic risk. Although social support influences health behaviors, the role of co-participation in physical activity (PA) with family and friends remains underexamined among adults with ASD, particularly within Hispanic/Latino populations. Objective: The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) to examine differences in family- and friend-based co-participation in PA between physically active and inactive adults with ASD, and (2) to examine the association between co-participation and objectively measured PA levels. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis used pooled baseline data from two community-based studies. Adults with ASD completed self-report measures of family- and friend-based co-participation in physical activity. PA was objectively assessed using wearables (steps/day), and anthropometric measures were obtained. Results: The final sample included 44 adults with ASD (mean age = 26 years; 73% male), with 52% identifying as Hispanic/Latino. Overall, 70% had an unhealthy body mass index, 75% had a high-risk waist-to-height ratio, and 55% accumulated <7000 steps/day. Participants who reported family-based co-participation at least “a few times,” particularly swimming and unstructured activities, had greater odds of achieving ≥7000 steps/day (OR = 6.86; 95% CI: 1.26–41.1). Friend based co-participation in PA was not significantly associated with PA outcomes Conclusion: Family-based co-participation is a key facilitator of PA among adults with ASD, underscoring the need for. family-centered, culturally responsive interventions that address social and contextual determinants of health.
