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 will seem that their infant was created a lesser being instead of a healthy babe. Seeing the physical manifestations of the genetic condition renders each parent anxious in terms of bringing up a child who has it. But there's no requirement to despair. Many people who have 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 on the National Down Syndrome Society, one in 733 babies born inside the United States, or about 400,000 Americans, has Down syndrome. This genetic disorder applies to 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, as well as other activities that will make them live an ordinary life.

What are the physical manifestations of Down syndrome? Babies born from it usually have small features. From using a compressed face using 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 tall. They also have low muscle that they look limp and they have poor head control. They look so delicate and frail.

There is also manifestations since they grow, for example congenital heart defects, loss in hearing in one or both ears, intellectual and developmental disabilities (like walking, standing up, along with other motor skills), problems with sleep (like anti 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 assist the family members understand and appreciate the specific situation. They also prepare family members psychologically, enabling the parents, particularly the mother, to effectively take care of the individual during its infancy. These therapists also set the oldsters' expectations of a child with Down syndrome, guiding them step by step on how the treatment is progressing.

There may also be cases where occupational therapy practitioners can also be present in the classroom. This is to boost the communication skills of the little one through handwriting, drawing, and also other issues that should be addressed in order for the child to adapt in a social setting. Adults who have Down syndrome also benefit from occupational therapy, as they try to be productive at work, 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 treatment therapy is readily available and accessible. Read more about Down syndrome, ask friends how they cope, and many of all, consult a Occupational therapy West Palm Beach. Some have misdiagnosed Down syndrome with autism but we must be sure we obtain the right diagnosis.