Day: March 21, 2023

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Down Syndrome : Myths, Challenges and Approaches


Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder that occurs when there is an extra copy of chromosome 21. It affects approximately 1 in every 830 babies born in India and 1 in every 700 birth worldwide. This genetic disorder results in various developmental challenges and physical differences.
Children with Down syndrome face unique challenges, including developmental delays, intellectual disability, and physical health issues.
While there is no cure for Down syndrome, there are many therapies and approaches that can help individuals with this condition overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
So, with early intervention and support, many of these challenges can be overcome.


Today In my blog, I will discuss Down syndrome, the most common myths, its challenges, and various therapies and approaches that can help individuals with Down syndrome lead fulfilling lives.

Myths

There are several myths surrounding Down syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects a person’s physical and cognitive development. Here are some of the most common ones:

Myth: People with Down syndrome are always happy and loving.
Reality: While it is true that many people with Down syndrome are friendly and sociable, they are also capable of experiencing a full range of emotions, just like anyone else.

Myth: Down syndrome is a rare condition.
Reality: Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality, occurring in about 1 in every 700 births worldwide.

Myth: People with Down syndrome are not capable of learning or living independently.
Reality: With proper education, support, and accommodations, people with Down syndrome can learn and achieve a great deal. Many are able to live independently, hold down jobs, and contribute to their communities.

Myth: People with Down syndrome all look alike.
Reality: While people with Down syndrome may share certain physical characteristics, such as almond-shaped eyes and a small stature, there is actually a wide range of variation in appearance.

Myth: Down syndrome is always caused by older maternal age.
Reality: While the chance of having a child with Down syndrome does increase as a woman gets older, about 80% of cases occur in women under the age of 35. Additionally, in about 5% of cases, the condition is inherited from a parent who carries a translocation of chromosomes.

It is important to understand that people with Down syndrome are unique individuals with their own personalities, abilities, and challenges. We should not judge them based on outdated and inaccurate stereotypes.

Challenges



1. Physical Challenges:

Children with Down syndrome face a variety of challenges, including delayed development, intellectual disability, and physical health issues. These challenges can make it difficult for them to learn and communicate, as well as to perform daily activities such as dressing, eating, and bathing.

a. Low muscle tone

One of the most common physical challenges associated with Down syndrome is low muscle tone, which can make it difficult for individuals to walk, run, and perform other physical activities.

To overcome this challenge, occupational therapy and physiotherapy is often recommended. These therapies focuses on building strength, flexibility, and coordination to improve overall physical function. Exercises such as stretching, strengthening, and balance training can all be beneficial.

b. Poor eyesight and hearing:

In addition to low muscle tone, individuals with Down syndrome may also have poor eyesight or hearing. Regular check-ups with an eye doctor and audiologist can help identify any issues early on and allow for appropriate interventions, such as glasses or hearing aids.

c. Physical health issues:

Children with Down syndrome are at increased risk for a variety of physical health issues, including congenital heart defects, respiratory infections, and hearing and vision problems. These health issues can impact their ability to participate in physical activities and can lead to a decreased quality of life.



2. Cognitive Challenges:

Individuals with Down syndrome may also face cognitive challenges, such as learning disabilities and delayed speech and language development. To overcome these challenges, early intervention and specialized education programs are often recommended.
Speech therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals with Down syndrome, as it focuses on developing communication skills, including speech, language, and social communication. Speech therapists can also work with individuals to develop alternative communication methods, such as sign language or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.
Educational programs that are tailored to the individual needs of the person with Down syndrome can also be highly effective. These programs may focus on specific skills such as reading or math, as well as on developing social and life skills.

a. Intellectual disability:

Individuals with Down syndrome typically have intellectual disability ranging from mild to moderate. This can make it challenging for them to learn and process information, which can impact their ability to communicate effectively.

b. Delayed development:

Children with Down syndrome may experience delays in their physical, social, and emotional development. This can impact their ability to learn and interact with others, and can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation.

3. Emotional Challenges:

Individuals with Down syndrome may also face emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It is important to address these challenges early on to prevent them from impacting the individual’s overall quality of life.



Therapies and Approaches


Fortunately, there are various therapies and approaches that can help individuals with Down syndrome overcome these challenges and lead fulfilling lives.


1. Early intervention:


Early intervention is crucial for children with Down syndrome. Early intervention services, such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and special education can help children develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life.


2. Educational support:


Individuals with Down syndrome may benefit from special education services, such as individualized education plans (IEPs) and specialized classrooms. These services can help individuals learn at their own pace and in a way that is tailored to their unique needs

3. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be helpful in addressing emotional challenges. This therapy focuses on identifying and managing emotions, developing coping strategies, and improving overall mental health. Support groups for individuals with Down syndrome and their families can also provide valuable emotional support and resources.



While Down syndrome can present a range of challenges, early intervention and a variety of therapies and approaches can help individuals with this condition overcome these challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy can address physical challenges, specialized education programs and speech therapy can help with cognitive challenges, and psychotherapy and support groups can address emotional challenges. By working together, individuals with Down syndrome and their families can develop effective strategies to overcome challenges and lead happy, healthy lives.



Hope you have got a fair idea of what actually Down syndrome is all about, the prevelant myths and how to overcome the various challenges that comes alongwith this condition. If you enjoyed reading my blog then do post a feedback, I would love to hear from you !!!

Author Shilpi Mayank Awasthi



Creative representation for this blog is done by our extremely talented CreativeSaathi associate Morpheus Nag

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AAC approach for communication development in Down syndrome

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects an individual’s physical and cognitive development. Individuals with Down syndrome often face communication challenges due to speech and language delays, making it difficult for them to express their needs, thoughts, and emotions effectively.

It is not hidden and cannot be denied at all that some individuals with disabilities like Down syndrome have difficulties using spoken language. This is where Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) methods come into play.

Comprehension would be hard for them even after they have tried language development programs.
They are helped by number of approaches and strategies like gesturing, facial epressions, writing, body language.

This is where augmentative and alternative communication can help
Augmentative and alternative communication systems pair tasks, actions, objects or concepts with pictures or hand signs. For e.g the world ok , want or eat is paired with a picture or hand sign with these words
It is also believed that using an AAC can slow down the epressive language skills and the child would avoid speaking at all. This is not true at all.

AAC refers to any means of communication other than spoken language. It includes communication aids such as picture cards, communication boards, sign language, and electronic devices that speak for the individual. AAC can enhance communication, improve social interaction, and boost self-esteem for individuals with Down syndrome.

An AAC works like a foundation or readiness program for language and oral speaking skills . This is well supported by research
AACs work on two main steps that are required for good social communication.

Let see those two steps


Step 1: Augmentative and alternative communication systems are an effective way for children to learn and use early words. That’s because children remember the speech sounds and the visual image of the object, picture or hand sign that’s paired with the word. This is likely to help autistic children who respond best to information that’s presented visually.
Step 2: Augmentative and alternative communication systems are improving children’s understanding of words. This is because speech on its own can be very quick, whereas a visual image lasts longer and often stays still, giving children more time to understand the information. Also, people tend to slow down when they’re using visual aids or hand signs.
Thus AACs is purely working in the direction of developing communication and leading the child to be an independent talker.

AACs are a blessing to the world of disability and should not be criticized.These are active catalyst in which a child on spectrum can communicate needs, feelings easily and in positive ways .
AACs improves understanding between you and your ward.
AACs are easily available and at access to a non verbal child thus it creates less stress to the child.


AAC methods can also help individuals with Down syndrome improve their social interaction skills. By having access to effective communication tools, individuals with Down syndrome can better express themselves and interact with others, building social connections and friendships.

AAC methods play a crucial role in improving communication for individuals with Down syndrome. These methods can help individuals express their needs and wants more effectively, improve social interaction skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. By using AAC methods, individuals with Down syndrome can become more independent and confident in their communication abilities.

Less stress and better communication via AACs is eventually leading to a stronger relationship


Creative Efforts and Honest opinion by – Heena Sahi

Creative representation for this blog is done by our extremely talented CreativeSaathi associate Vinayak Raj

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Building Social Development

A video blog by Pinki Kumar on building Social Development and helping our kids to connect with other kids.

https://youtube.com/shorts/DVCO6aQcQ_Y?feature=share

Author Pinki Kumar

Pinki is a special educator, play therapist and a mother of a neurodivergent kid. She has a YouTube channel Play and learn to teach different methods and strategies. These videos are a great resource for the parents to help their child learn various skills.