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 are unable to help but feel devastated. To them, it could seem that their infant was created a lesser being instead of a healthy babe. Seeing the physical manifestations of the genetic condition renders every parent anxious with regards to bringing up a child who has it. But there's no requirement to despair. Many those with Down syndrome are healthy. Some visit school, enjoy sports, and socialize. But some might need medical care for possible birth defects and other congenital problems.



According to the National Down Syndrome Society, one in 733 babies born within the United States, or about 400,000 Americans, has Down syndrome. This genetic disorder impacts the growth and growth and development of the child causing delays in their 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 best way to care for oneself like dressing or eating, refining their coordination skills, and other activities that will make them live an ordinary life.

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

There are other manifestations while they grow, such as congenital heart defects, loss in hearing in one or both ears, intellectual and developmental disabilities (like walking, taking a stand, and other motor skills), problems with sleep (like anti snoring), and vision problems. They also withdraw 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 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 your situation. They also prepare the household psychologically, enabling the oldsters, especially the mother, to effectively take care of the individual during its infancy. These therapists also set the fogeys' expectations of a child with Down syndrome, guiding them in depth on how the therapy 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 kid through handwriting, drawing, as well as other issues that should be addressed in order for the child to adapt inside a social setting. Adults who've Down syndrome also reap the benefits of occupational therapy, while they try to be productive in the office, learn skills that allow them to live independently, and be physically active for any healthy lifestyle.

Parents should put importance on the well-being of the consumer 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 a lot of all, consult a Occupational therapy West Palm Beach. Some have misdiagnosed Down syndrome with autism but we have to be sure we have the right diagnosis.