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Employment for Persons with Down Syndrome - Everyday individuals with Down syndrome strive to accomplish the same goals as everyone else. They want self-fulfillment, pride in their achievements,...

Adults with Down Syndrome

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Evaluating a Child with Down Syndrome - As with most disabilities there comes a time when your child will need to have an evaluation, generally for school. Sometimes the school will request...
Obesity is more common in adults with Down syndrome. Research has shown that they have a basal metabolic rate that is slower than that of the average adult. The average adult with Down syndrome burns 200 to 300 calories less per day than the non-Down’s adults. Simply cutting calories tends to result in nutritional deficiencies for the Down’s adults so it is imperative that they burn an extra 200 to 300 calories per day to prevent gaining weight and obesity. Many adults with Down syndrome were born with congenital heart defects that required surgery to treat them. In some, the defect cannot be treated with surgery so exercise is contraindicated. There is a condition in which the vertebrae’s are too flexible in the neck and spine. In these cases, exercise is also prohibited. It can be difficult for these adults to exercise and not gain weight because of their ongoing health issues.

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Exploring Down Syndrome - Down Syndrome involves a genetic mishap where the affected person has 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. Usually there is an extra chromosome 21....

Sleep apnea is common in adults with Down syndrome. It has been reported that many Down’s adults sleep bent at the waist with their head on their legs. This can be a potential problem with getting adequate sleep and can aggravate sleep apnea. Also common is snoring, restless sleeping, and irregular breathing patterns during sleep. Due to sleep difficulties, many adults with Down syndrome experience tiredness and somnolence during the daytime hours.

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Feeding and Down Syndrome - When breast-feeding an infant with Down syndrome it is important to understand that the baby needs addition DHA or fatty acids and DHA is included in...

Depression has been associated with a decrease in the immune system and an overall decrease in physical health. Enhancing the social interaction and creativity of an adult with Down syndrome will help combat these things. These adults need annual health screenings to address their original Down’s issues as well as the health issues that can arise such as problems with skin, hearing, eyesight, and teeth or gums.

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Health Issues and Equality - Diabetes is more common is people with Down syndrome than in the general population. Once a person with Down syndrome has diabetes, it is even more...

As adults with Down syndrome get older, it is common for them to develop urinary incontinence and constipation. They are at risk for Alzheimer’s and orthopedic problems. It can become increasingly difficult for the Down’s adult to be independent and take care of them despite the desire to be like other adults and live independent lives.

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Health Problems and Down Syndrome - The extra chromosome causes health issues in the individual with Down Syndrome. A baby with Down Syndrome will develop slower than other babies.

Most adults with Down syndrome can live independent and successfully healthy lives as long as there are adults who can help manage their healthcare. Both physical and mental wellbeing are important to remaining physically healthy and living longer. Despite the many adverse physical effects that occur in the adult with Down syndrome as they age, it is possible for them to be productive adults in society. Most importantly to their success is that they know that they are productive and are made to feel like they are independent. Healthy living is more than just a lack of disease.

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Home schooling a Child with Down Syndrome - Before embarking upon the adventure of home schooling a Down syndrome child, it is necessary for the parents to learn everything they can about Down...



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