Down Syndrome And The Role of Occupational Therapy

Wiki Article

When parents learn that their newborn has Down syndrome, they can't help but feel devastated. To them, it may seem that their infant was given birth to a lesser being instead of a healthy babe. Seeing the physical manifestations on this genetic condition renders each parent anxious when it comes to bringing up a child who has it. But there's no need to despair. Many individuals with Down syndrome are healthy. Some visit school, enjoy sports, and socialize. But some may require medical take care of possible birth defects along with other congenital problems.


According towards the National Down Syndrome Society, one out of 733 babies born within the United States, or about 400,000 Americans, has Down syndrome. This genetic disorder impacts the growth and progression of the child causing delays as part of his or her cognitive abilities. This is where occupational therapy for Down syndrome is available in. Occupational therapy practitioners help individuals with Down syndrome become independent by teaching them how you can care for oneself like dressing or eating, refining their coordination skills, along with other activities that will make them live an ordinary life.

What would be the physical manifestations of Down syndrome? Babies born by using it usually have small features. From having a compressed face with a flat nose and a small mouth, to almond-shaped eyes that slant up, small ears, short neck, small extremities, short high. They also have low muscle that they look limp and the've poor head control. They look so delicate and frail.

There is also manifestations because they grow, for example congenital heart defects, lack of hearing in one or both ears, intellectual and developmental disabilities (like walking, standing up, and also other motor skills), problems with sleep (like snore), and vision problems. They also become ill easily and may contract infection or diseases faster compared to those who do not have Down syndrome.

All throughout these impediments, occupational therapy practitioners play a vital role in the lives of those with Down syndrome. Aside from physically and psychologically enabling the consumer, these occupational therapists assist the family members understand and appreciate the problem. They also prepare the household psychologically, enabling the parents, specially the mother, to effectively look after the individual during its infancy. These therapists also set the oldsters' expectations of the kid with Down syndrome, guiding them step by step on how treatments is progressing.

There may also be cases where occupational therapy practitioners will also be present in the classroom. This is to enhance the communication skills of a child through handwriting, drawing, as well as other issues that have to be addressed in order for the child to adapt in a very social setting. Adults who've Down syndrome also benefit from occupational therapy, since they try to be productive at the job, learn skills that permit them to live independently, and be physically active for the healthy lifestyle.

Parents should put importance towards the well-being of the individual from its infancy to adulthood. The need for professional occupational care is readily available and accessible. Read more about Down syndrome, ask friends how they cope, and many of all, consult a occupational therapy at home West Palm Beach. Some have misdiagnosed Down syndrome with autism but we have to be sure we the right diagnosis.