The recession is causing large numbers of U.S. adults to cut back on discretionary spending as well as lifestyle choices, according to a new Zogby poll.

These trends are a continuation of consumer behaviors that began before the current recession, the pollster said.

"Increasing numbers of people have become less materialistic and more interested in other, simpler forms of personal fulfillment. Some of that has been due to economic fears and realities, and the rest by choice," said John Zogby.

"I see this to be a long-term trend that will continue even if and when the economy rebounds."

Those activities most impacted by the recession, as well as decisions made prior to the recession, were: driving, eating at restaurants, going to the movies, and traveling. Substantial numbers of people have also changed their housing situation, purchased second-hand apparel, and sold belongings.

The survey asked respondents about 11 potential economic lifestyle changes, and whether they will not make the change; they have not made it yet; they made the change prior to the recession; they made it due to the recession; and if they plan to make the change within the year.

Those with lower incomes and those who have lost a job or fear being unemployed are the most likely to take actions to save money. There are other small demographics differences within each question; but cost-cutting is prevalent across demographic groups, including income.

Even in households that earn $250,000 or more annually, responses for most of these questions are not dramatically different from those of the entire sample.

The conclusions were drawn from a Zogby Interactive survey of 41,175 adults conducted from July 2-27, 2009. The margin of error is +/- 0.5 percent.