Down Syndrome

Daily living activities are essential in supporting independence for people with Down syndrome . These activities develop important life skills, build confidence and nurture self-expression. Engaging in structured routines, such as preparing meals, managing self-care or participating in social activities, can enhance overall physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Independent support workers on Mable play a key role in this process, offering personalised support in helping individuals develop life skills and stay engaged. By providing the right support tailored to each person's goals, support workers on Mable can empower people with Down syndrome to make choices, develop new skills, and participate fully in their communities. Why daily living activities matter for people with Down syndrome Everyday tasks are more than just routine – they are important building blocks for independence. Adaptability skills: Engaging in daily activities can help people with Down syndrome to develo

Down syndrome is a lifelong condition caused by a genetic condition that occurs when a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. Down syndrome impacts people in different ways. It can impact people's intellectual and cognitive development, physical characteristics, and increase the risk of some health conditions. How Down syndrome impacts individuals Each person with Down syndrome has their own personality, passions, strengths and weaknesses, just like anyone in the community. They will have individual requirements for what support they need as they go through life. Some people with Down syndrome may need assistance with daily activities, work or socialising. People with Down syndrome may experience some health challenges , both physical and intellectual. According to the Australian Family Physician , these can include: Heart conditions Intellectual disability or learning difficulties Hearing loss Respiratory challenges Autoimmune diseases, like diabetes or coeliac disease.

For people with Down syndrome , therapy can play a crucial role in fostering physical, cognitive and social development. From early childhood to adulthood, different therapies help build essential skills, enhance communication and promote independence. Why therapy is important for people with Down syndrome Therapy can be beneficial for people with Down syndrome . Certain therapies can contribute to enhancing quality of life, fostering independence and developing life skills. Some of the key benefits of therapy include: Improved motor skills, coordination and strength Enhanced speech, communication and social interaction Increased independence in assisted daily living and self-care Boosted confidence and emotional wellbeing Greater participation in education, employment and community activities. The importance of early intervention in childhood Early intervention can be key to setting a strong foundation for future growth. Early therapy can help children with Down syndrome develop cr

People with Down syndrome may be eligible for funding through the NDIS to help support them, depending on the impact of the condition on their daily life. What is Down syndrome Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs randomly when a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. From 2016 to 2020, approximately 265 babies with Down syndrome were born annually in Australia, equating to about 1 in every 1,158 births. It's a lifelong condition, with the extra chromosome affecting the development of the brain and body. Down syndrome impacts people in different ways. It can impact people's intellectual and cognitive development, physical characteristics, and increase the risk of some health conditions. Financial support for people with Down syndrome Down syndrome is considered a disability in Australia. The NDIS classifies it as a condition that will have a permanent disability, requiring lifelong support towards independence and other goals. For people over the

We recently hosted a webinar on Understanding and Supporting People with Down Syndrome, with guest presenters Liz and Claire from Down Syndrome Australia . Liz is the World Down Syndrome Congress Coordinator, and Claire is the first independent director with Down syndrome on the Down Syndrome Australia Board and an advocate member of the Down Syndrome Australia Advisory Network. In this article, we share highlights of the webinar and some practical support strategies for those supporting people with Down syndrome . What is Down syndrome? Down syndrome is a lifelong genetic condition when a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes within each cell—46 chromosomes in total. However, people with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes, resulting from the extra chromosome 21—which is why the condition is also known as trisomy 21. The extra chromosome affects the development of the brain and body. It may impact intellectual and cogn

Down syndrome explained Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that occurs when a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. The human body has trillions of cells, and within each cell is a thread-like structure made up of DNA, called a chromosome. Chromosomes are what determine how a baby's body develops and functions during pregnancy and after birth. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes in each of their cells (46 in total), but people with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes in their cells, i.e. they have an extra chromosome 21. This extra copy changes how the baby's body and brain develop, which may cause intellectual and learning disabilities as well as physical challenges for the person as they grow. When thinking about Down syndrome, it's important to remember that: Down syndrome is a genetic condition Down syndrome is not an illness or a disease It is a lifelong condition with no cure As a genetic condition that is caused randomly It cannot be prevented and no one is r