MANAGING DOWN SYNDROME: TIPS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that takes place due to abnormal cell division resulting in an extra gene from chromosome 21. where a person has 3 copies of chromosome 21 instead of the regular 2 copies in all cells.

The extra genetic material is the reason for the characteristic features and developmental issues of Down syndrome. Most people are not aware of Down syndrome and management of the condition.
Hence, it is important to undergo the tests recommended by the doctor during pregnancy to avoid any
complications for both mother and foetus. Within a few months of pregnancy, doctors can diagnose if the foetus has Down syndrome through scans and blood tests. Despite these advancements, India still records a significant number of cases with Down syndrome. Better understanding of the condition and early interventions help in improving the quality of life for children and adults with this disorder and help them live happy lives. Babies who are affected by Down syndrome have a distinct facial appearance, learning disability and developmental delay. It can also cause other medical conditions like heart and gastrointestinal disorders. What are the risk factors? Certain parents have a greater chance of giving birth to a baby with Down syndrome. The risk factors include: People with Down syndrome are also more prone to infection. They may struggle with respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. Therefore, giving extra attention to them is important. With the help of medical interventions, special educators and therapists, people with Down syndrome can lead a fairly normal life. Here are few tips which the parents and caretakers should follow to manage children with the condition:
Set priorities: Kids with Down syndrome need extra attention. Set your priorities for them. Do not let them feel that you are ignoring the child. Try to introduce some activities to keep them engaged with you. Have a set routine: This will help them to improve their quality of life. Setting a time table for each activity will help them get adjusted without much difficulty. Establish communication: Individuals with Down syndrome face difficulties in speaking during their early
stages of growth. Caretakers and parents should establish a communication channel using eye movements, facial expressions, hand gestures and other means of communication that the child understands. Never blame them: Caretakers and parents should never lose cool and blame the child. Never abuse them and demotivate the child. It will negatively impact their growth. Always be encouraging and appreciative the little steps. It is always better to maintain calm and be receptive. Use play to learn: There isn’t any clear demarcation between education and play. The child might suffer from
Down syndrome but can learn while they play. When your child plays with toys, introduce objects, names and other things. Be factual: It’s easy for caretakers and parents to be bogged down with myths. Be armed with factual information and do some research if you don’t know. Get in touch with experts. Share your pain or agony with families, guardians who are experienced in dealing with Down syndrome. You can find solution to your problem when you share information who have gone through similar circumstances.
Help their growth and development: Children with Down syndrome are typically slow to crawl, and talk, as development for them is slow than other kids of same age, but you can aid their growth and development through physiotherapy, speech therapy, etc. Managing kids with Down syndrome may take an extra toll on your emotional and physical wellbeing. But the time you spend on them will make them stronger and independent. Therefore, providing them that extra attention is always crucial.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/parenting/health-fitness/managing-dow…
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