Does Down syndrome last forever?
Does Down syndrome last forever?
Today the average lifespan of a person with Down syndrome is approximately 60 years. As recently as 1983, the average lifespan of a person with Down syndrome was 25 years. The dramatic increase to 60 years is largely due to the end of the inhumane practice of institutionalizing people with Down syndrome.
What is the mental age of Down syndrome?
The average IQ of a young adult with Down syndrome is 50, equivalent to the mental ability of an eight- or nine-year-old child, but this can vary widely. The parents of the affected individual are usually genetically normal. The probability increases from less than 0.1% in 20-year-old mothers to 3% in those of age 45.
Can a person with Down syndrome live alone?
People with Down syndrome can live alone. People with Down syndrome are capable of living on their own. Some choose to live by themselves, while others like to keep their family close and stay at …
Do you want to Babie a person with Down syndrome?
People with Down syndrome do not want to be babied. People with Down syndrome don’t want you to baby them. They may need a little more time, but that doesn’t mean they can’t do the same things you can. Just be patient with them, and allow them to do it on their own. That’s what they want.
How does having Down syndrome affect everyday living in adulthood?
As people with Down syndrome age, it’s important to continue getting routine medical care and checkups. People with the genetic disorder are at higher risk for complications, including gastrointestinal problems, sleep apnea, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, leukemia, and other health problems.
Can a person with Down Syndrome go to college?
“We do have a handful of individuals who live completely on their own — but more are living with family or a professional organization,” Chicoine says. After high school, people with Down syndrome do have the option of continuing their education.
Can a person with Down syndrome be an adult?
But that thinking doesn’t really stand anymore, she says. Now many people with Down syndrome do work and have independence. That’s not to say adulthood with Down syndrome does not come with its challenges, nor does it necessarily look the same as adulthood for people without the condition. Here’s some more information about what to expect.
How does having Down syndrome affect your health?
People with the genetic disorder are at higher risk for complications, including gastrointestinal problems, sleep apnea, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, leukemia, and other health problems. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeing a doctor regularly are some of the best ways to identify complications early and treat them. ( 5)
“We do have a handful of individuals who live completely on their own — but more are living with family or a professional organization,” Chicoine says. After high school, people with Down syndrome do have the option of continuing their education.
When do people with Down Syndrome need treatment?
People with Down syndrome are at a greater risk for a number of health problems and conditions than are those who do not have Down syndrome. Many of these associated conditions may require immediate care right after birth, occasional treatment throughout childhood and adolescence, or long-term treatments throughout life.