Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Introduction

Welcome to our information page. This resource is intended for families of persons with Down syndrome (DS). It is common for members of families containing an individuals with DS to conduct research to better understand the unique challenges they may face, or to prepare for what the future my hold. There is a large number of resources available surrounding Down snydrome, and this can be overwhelming and intimidating. The purpose of this learning resource is to consolidate this information into one page, clarify the key aspects and make learning easier.

Through summarization and critical analysis of current literature, it is the goal of this page to present families of persons with DS a comprehensive, easily understood learning resource that they can feel confident in consulting. This resource further intends to educate the readers on projected expectations over the lifespan of an individual with DS, ease concerns, and highlight the role of physiotherapy in the care and management of Down syndrome. After reading this resource, it is the hope of the authors that readers will feel encouraged and confident in self-management, allowing the family to better cope at home, and be better able to understand when and how to seek professional guidance, should they require support.

Learning Outcomes (What Will You Get From This Page?)

After reading this page you will:

1. Develop a basic knowledge of down syndrome as a lifelong condition
2. Gain the tools to identify developmental milestones and manage expectations over the entire lifespan of an individual with down syndromes
3. Increase their confidence in the application of self-management techniques for individuals with down syndrome
4. Recognize the role of physiotherapy throughout the life of an individual with down syndrome in the management of various conditions

Learning Outcomes developed in class;

1. The reader will gain a better understanding of Developmental Milestones for individuals with Down Syndrome
2. The reader will gain a greater comprehension of the physiotherapeutic management of Down Syndrome

What is Down Syndrome?  

DS is the most common chromosomal disease world wide (NDSS 2018), with 1 in 650 births resulting in a child with DS (Cipriani et al. 2018). In the UK alone, there are over 41,000 people living with down syndrome, and 750 individuals with DS born each year (Carr and Collins 2018). These numbers are expected to rise in the coming years due to medical advancements which have increased the life expectancy in people with DS from age 9 in 1929 to 60 years of age today (Zhu et al. 2013). With the increase in number of people who have DS and the increased age of this population, there will be many new challenges which health professionals and families will have to overcome. This wiki is necessary to inform families of individuals with DS about what to expect in a changing environment, with a specific focus on physiotherapy management.

References

see adding references tutorial.