Down Syndrome And The Role of Occupational Therapy

Down Syndrome And The Role of Occupational Therapy

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When parents learn that their newborn has Down syndrome, they can't help but feel devastated. To them, it could seem that their infant was given birth to a lesser being instead of a healthy babe. Seeing the physical manifestations of this genetic condition renders all parents anxious in relation to bringing up a young child who has it. But there's no requirement to despair. Many individuals with Down syndrome are healthy. Some check out school, enjoy sports, and socialize. But some may require medical look after possible birth defects and other congenital problems.



According towards the National Down Syndrome Society, one out of 733 babies born in the United States, or about 400,000 Americans, has Down syndrome. This genetic disorder impacts the growth and continuing development of the child causing delays in his or her cognitive abilities. This is where occupational therapy for Down syndrome is available in. Occupational therapy practitioners help people who have Down syndrome become independent by teaching them the best way to care for oneself like dressing or eating, refining their coordination skills, as well as other activities that will make them live an average life.

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

There are also manifestations while they grow, like congenital heart defects, loss of hearing in one or both ears, intellectual and developmental disabilities (like walking, standing, as well as other motor skills), problems with sleep (like stop snoring), and vision problems. They also get sick easily and may contract infection or diseases faster than others who do not have Down syndrome.

All throughout these impediments, occupational therapy practitioners play a crucial role in the lives of those with Down syndrome. Aside from physically and psychologically enabling the individual, these occupational therapists help the family members understand and appreciate the situation. They also prepare the household psychologically, enabling the mother and father, particularly the mother, to effectively take care of the individual during its infancy. These therapists also set the mother and father' expectations of the kid with Down syndrome, guiding them step-by-step on how the treatment is progressing.

There will also be cases where occupational therapy practitioners may also be present inside classroom. This is to enhance the communication skills of the child through handwriting, drawing, and other issues that need to be addressed in order for a child to adapt in a very social setting. Adults who may have Down syndrome also make use of occupational therapy, since they try to be productive in the office, learn skills that enable them to live independently, and turn into physically active to get a healthy lifestyle.

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