Down Syndrome Support: Tips on What You Can Do to Help with Treatment and Care

Each individual has the right to be loved, understood, and the right to belong. Those with Down syndrome are not different from other individuals. Each one of them feels, dreams, and belongs.

They were both high school kids at the time and would sometimes need extra assistance with daily life. That’s when we start talking about Down syndrome support.

And support isn’t just for carers or doctors. We can get it from anyone,  neighbours, teachers, relatives, friends.

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome is a disorder as a result from an extra chromosome. Within the body, cells contain small units known as chromosomes. These chromosomes direct the body's growth and function. 

The majority of individuals possess 46 chromosomes. This indicates 23 pairs within each cell. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes due to the extra copy of chromosome 21. Trisomy 21 is another name for the syndrome.

The additional chromosome changes a baby's brain and body as they develop. Both physical and mental difficulties can be a result of this.

People with Down syndrome often have developmental difficulties. This includes taking longer to learn to speak compared to other children.

Physical Signs of Down Syndrome

Physical signs of Down syndrome are noticed at birth and progress as the child grows older. Some of them include facial features like:

• A flattened face, especially of the nose bridge
• Almond eyes with a slight upward slope
• A tongue that would protrude from your mouth

Other physical indicators can be:

• A short neck
• Little feet, hands, and ears
• A single line continuous over a hand's palm (palmar crease)
• Little pinky fingers
• Loose joints or weak muscles
• Being short compared to others

Additional medical problems are also found among some individuals who have Down syndrome. Some common medical problems include:

• Congenital heart defects are cardiac malformations
• Loss of hearing
• Occlusive sleep apnoea

Types of Down Syndrome

Not all people with Down syndrome have the same type. Even though symptoms are comparable, causes vary subtly.  

Knowledge about the type can help determine the nature of care and the Down syndrome support required.

There are three major types of Down syndrome. They are:

1. Trisomy 21

This is the most frequent type. People who have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of two in the cells of the body.

Trisomy 21 is found in the majority with Down syndrome. It happens by chance and not heredity.

2. Translocation Down Syndrome

It is an uncommon kind. A part of chromosome 21 separates and adheres to another chromosome.

It can be inherited from one's relatives, but it can occur spontaneously, too. This occurs in about 3% to 4% of people with Down syndrome.

3. Mosaic Down syndrome

This is the least common of them all. A part of the cells has this extra copy of chromosome 21. Others are normal. 

Mosaic Down syndrome can be observed with fewer characteristics. It can be seen in roughly one to two percent of patients.

Every one of these varieties calls for a different maintenance level, but all react positively to an early identification and correct Down syndrome support. 

Individuals are helped by support services such as speech therapy and general medical screening, education, as well as community programs.

Medical Issues Common with Down Syndrome

Individuals who have Down syndrome can also have other health conditions. These can be there at birth or develop as they grow. They can be managed with help from a doctor.

Frequently found conditions of Down syndrome are:

• Heart issues.
• Thyroid abnormalities
• Constipation and celiac disease
• Autism, communication, and repetitive behaviours.
• Alzheimer’s disease.

How Down Syndrome is Diagnosed

Medical professionals can perform a Down syndrome screening. This can be during pregnancy or after birth.

Two routine kinds of tests assist in detecting Down syndrome in pregnancy:

• Screenings can be performed before you become pregnant. This informs you of your baby's chances of developing Down syndrome. If the screening shows that your baby will develop Down syndrome, you will need extra screening to confirm this.
• Prenatal screening tests identify whether a condition exists or not through the viewing of a sample of a fetus's chromosomes.

They pose a mild risk of producing miscarriage. They are done only in the event that a screening test suspects that a foetus could have Down syndrome.

After the birth of a baby, the physician can identify Down syndrome from the physical characteristics of the syndrome. The physician can then confirm using a karyotype genetic test. From the blood of the baby, the test can detect the presence of extra chromosomes.

Common Treatments for Down Syndrome Support 

There is no single, accepted way to treat Down syndrome. The physical and mental requirements of each person determine the treatment. They are also based on his or her weaknesses and strengths.

Individuals with Down syndrome can live in their homes and get the support they need. They can get the needed Down syndrome support in the community as well. 

Individuals with Down syndrome are more at risk of several illnesses and ailments. When compared to those without Down syndrome, this is more.

After birth, many of these related conditions may need to be treated right away. Some people may require temporary treatment during their youth. For others, lifelong therapies might be necessary.

To fix a heart issue, a baby with Down syndrome might need surgery a few days after birth. Digestive issues are also possible for someone with Down syndrome. These issues might require a special diet for the rest of one's life.

Down Syndrome Support

Down syndrome presents some challenges, but individuals can live more complete, healthier lives if they get the right help.

In addition, some people may require assistance in completing routine chores. They also help in acquiring knowledge or in building social relationships.

Most are covered in Down syndrome coverage. These are regular health consultations, educational support, and speech and communication support.

The daily routines become more manageable with NDIS support workers and providers. They also help individuals with Down syndrome attend group programs. They also help make new friends and live more confidently.

Support is available. It helps with walking around, or someone to talk to. The right support helps children and adults with Down syndrome reach personal goals.

Types of Down Syndrome Support

It's different having a child with Down syndrome. Apart from dealing with school, sport, and work, you will often have plenty of additional appointments with doctors and therapists.

Accepting help when it is offered is especially vital given your own and your child's requirements.

Treatment Therapies

To encourage the maximum amount of growth, independence, and productivity, a range of therapies can be employed in early intervention programs and throughout an individual's life. The section that follows is a list of some of these treatments.

• Physical Therapy:

There are activities that help muscle strength, balance, and posture. To prevent future problems, they help a child with Down syndrome make up for physical difficulties. An example includes helping a child adopt a healthy walking style and not one that might end up causing foot pain.

• Behavioural and Emotional Therapy:

Determines the pragmatic solutions to wanted and unwanted behaviours. Such therapists aim to find out why a child behaves in that manner. They thereafter formulate ways to prevent or end these incidents from occurring. They also demonstrate or instil appropriate ways to deal with them.

• Occupational Therapy:

Assists in determining how to get used to daily activities based on their needs. This sort of therapy emphasises self-care techniques like eating, dressing, writing, and using a computer. Teens are able to choose jobs or skills that they are interested in with the help of a high school occupational therapist.

• Speech-Language Therapy:

It helps children with Down syndrome in their ability to communicate. Through a therapist, they learn speech skills like mimicking sounds. The therapist also helps in feeding the baby, since speaking muscles can be improved through breastfeeding. They also help a child with other ways of communication. It can be sign languages and visual aids, until they learn to talk in spoken words.

Early Intervention

Children with Down syndrome develop very slowly in some areas. Starting early support can help them achieve their goals. Support can begin at any time after birth, but the sooner the better.

Research shows that early intervention enhances the results for young people with Down syndrome. Support can start early after birth and will frequently continue until the individual reaches their adult years.

Following that age, children are often given interventions and treatments in their school area.

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is any technology that makes information more accessible to Down syndrome. 

It can be a gadget, piece of equipment, or instructional material that enables people with Down syndrome to learn and carry out activities more easily.

Among the examples are:

•  Hearing aids for those with hearing loss
•  Bands that facilitate mobility,
•  Special pencils that simplify writing
•  Touchscreen-equipped computers
•  Computers with keyboards in large letters.
•  To prevent the student from feeling overloaded with information, highlight important words.

A bent desk or a book with three rings placed sideways can be helpful for a student or worker with Down syndrome who has trouble writing. 

Applying different approaches is the best way to find the appropriate assistive technology for each kid.

Raising a Child with Down Syndrome

One of the best things you can do for your child is to learn about Down syndrome.  You can search for resources and programs to help your child.

Having a relationship with other parents whose kids have Down syndrome is very important.  Also, you can work with doctors and professionals as your child grows.

You should know what you can do each day to support your child and look after yourself. 

Everyday Advice

Like most children, children with Down syndrome live on a routine.  Additionally, positive encouragement works better for them than punishment.  

When attempting the following daily tips, bear these two things in mind:

• Assign your child household chores, but be patient and break them up into manageable chunks.
• Let your child play with kids who have and don't have Down syndrome.
• You can maintain your high expectations while your child learns new things.
• Make time to play, read, relax, and go out together.
• Help your child complete daily tasks on their own.

Daily Responsibilities

To manage daily responsibilities, try these things:

• Creating and adhering to a schedule. 
• Help your youngster move from one activity to the next using clear signs. For younger children, viewing a picture or singing a song can be helpful.
• Use photos to create a visual daily schedule for your youngster.
• When talking to your youngster, use basic terminology and take fewer steps.
• Encourage your youngster to repeat directions to you. This helps to ensure they understand.
• Name and discuss topics that your youngster appears to be interested in.
• Avoid saying "That's wrong" when your child makes a mistake in order to support them in school.  Rather, just say, "Try it again."  When help is required, offer it.
• When talking to teachers, therapists, and doctors, your child's needs should be placed over their health.
•  Try to see if you can apply the lessons your child is learning in school to your life.

It's also critical that every child feels that they have some influence over their lives.  It is one strategy to help kids with Down syndrome lead happy lives. It is particularly important for them. 

 To do this, you can:

•  When it makes sense, let your child make choices.  This can be as simple as letting them pick their attire.
• Give them permission to take a sensible chance.  Each and every parent has to deal with this issue. Allow them to try new things as well.
• Help them solve problems by advising on how to settle disputes with friends or school-related difficulties. They can do that on their own. You don't have to do it all for them.

Support & Resources

The right kind of help can make all the difference.   Fortunately, people with Down syndrome can get help from many trustworthy services in Australia.

• Funding for social inclusion, education support, treatment, and personal care initiatives is made available through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
• Support groups in the community: Many communities hold parent or sibling gatherings to share experiences and offer advice.
• Counselling is not only for emergencies.  Sometimes all you need is someone to listen to you and advise you on dealing with family affairs.
• If you’re after some extra hands, check out Support Network. It’s your shortcut to finding awesome disability support workers. 

Whether you need help keeping up with daily life or want someone to tag along for community stuff, they’ve got you covered.  

With Support Network, families can relax a bit knowing they’re not stuck figuring it all out. There’s help out there, and it’s not as hard to find as you might think.

FAQs

1.  Does the NDIS cover Down syndrome supports?

Absolutely. If you or someone in your family has Down syndrome, the NDIS can help out. They cover all sorts of stuff—personal care, therapy, everyday support, and getting involved in the community. If it makes life smoother, it’s probably on their list.

So, if you’re looking to get these supports, step one is making sure you fit the NDIS eligibility guidelines. Sites like Support Network can take a load off your mind. They’re a lifesaver for finding trustworthy support workers.

2.  Is Down Syndrome Counted as a Disability in Australia?

Down syndrome is considered a disability under Australian law. It’s a lifelong thing that can shape everything from learning and moving around to making friends. Because of that, there are a lot of Down syndrome support options, including the NDIS.

3.  What Kind of Therapy Can You Get Through NDIS for Down Syndrome?

The NDIS offers a wide range of therapies, depending on what you need:

• Speech therapy 
• Occupational therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Behavioural therapy

All of this is about making everyday life easier and more fun. Support Network is packed with therapists and support workers who understand Down syndrome.

4.  What If Someone Doesn’t Qualify for NDIS?

Sometimes people don’t fit the NDIS criteria. There’s still help out there. Local and state programs, community groups, and even free or low-cost support meetups are available. You can always look into private therapists. Support Network can still help you find great people, even if you’re not using NDIS funding.

5.  What’s Out There for Community Support?

Numerous community support services are available to people with Down syndrome. These consist of social clubs and all-abilities events, day programs, group activities, and help with education and jobs. There’s also support for families and carers. Whether you’ve got NDIS or not, Support Network can hook you up with local people who’ll help you get involved and build those all-important social skills.

Conclusion

Down syndrome support is really important. It is helpful to the individuals and the carers as well. Adequate support helps people with Down syndrome enjoy a quality of life.

Consider reaching out to Support Network. Even if you are a caregiver or you are aware of someone who requires assistance. This enables you to create a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.