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 not help but feel devastated. To them, it will seem that their infant was created a lesser being rather than a healthy babe. Seeing the physical manifestations on this genetic condition renders every parent anxious in terms of bringing up a child who has it. But there's you should not despair. Many people with Down syndrome are healthy. Some head to school, enjoy sports, and socialize. But some might require medical take care of possible birth defects and also other congenital problems.



According to the National Down Syndrome Society, one out of 733 babies born inside United States, or about 400,000 Americans, has Down syndrome. This genetic disorder has an effect on the growth and growth and development of the child causing delays as part of his or her cognitive abilities. This is where occupational therapy for Down syndrome comes in. Occupational therapy practitioners help individuals with Down syndrome become independent by teaching them the way to care for oneself like dressing up or eating, refining their coordination skills, along with other activities that will make them live a standard 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 as well as a small mouth, to almond-shaped eyes that slant up, small ears, short neck, small hands and feet, short in height. They also have low tone of muscle that they look limp and the've poor head control. They look so delicate and frail.

There are other manifestations because 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 sleep apnea), and vision problems. They also become ill easily and will contract infection or diseases faster than those who do not have Down syndrome.

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

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

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