ADULT WITH DOWN SYNDROME

Adults with Down Syndrome

Adult with Down Syndrome

It is challenging to transition from child to adulthood. As teens approach their high school graduation, enrol them in a transition program. Transition programs can be a great place to gain independence. A successful program depends on a healthy partnership between the school, a job coach, the student and parents.
Many adults with Down Syndrome live into their 60’s.  They have various needs, abilities and desires, just like anyone else.  Many adults with Down Syndrome live independently with different levels of support.  They work, have relationships and enjoy a vibrant social life.  It is important to develop a group of support to increase the level of support they receive.  The group of support includes people the individual with Down Syndrome knows well, such as family, close friends, and supporters that will help them achieve their personal goals.  The group of support can include any number of people and you can organize it yourself.
With the right support, they will live fulfilling lives within our community.  There are many options available for employment and living arrangements.  Learn about the options that are available.
As individuals with Down Syndrome age, it is important to find out how the aging process will affect them.  Many adults with Down Syndrome age prematurely .  They experience the chronic health issues that other seniors experience, at an earlier age.  Learning about these common conditions and issues can help prepare for a healthy future. It is important to learn about all the issues that may lie ahead to be able to enjoy a longer life.
Learn more about Employment Assistance

Learn more about Employment Assistance

Over 45 with Down syndrome?

Over 45?

In the past, adults with Down syndrome were not given an opportunity to succeed.  In 1983 their life expectancy was 25 and today they can live well into their sixties.  Many adults with Down syndrome work and live independently.  Some adults with Down syndrome live in a group environment.  Several live at home with their parents or siblings.

Every person with Down syndrome has a wide range of capabilities and the options that are available for some may not be a good option for others.  Some adults with Down syndrome are able to take public transit independently whereas others find it more challenging.  The individuals who are able to travel on public transit may be able to live on their own, either independently or in a group setting with friends or family.  There are housing opportunities available now, such as LIGHTS,  that were not available before.

Many adults with Down syndrome attend the Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) program at Humber College.  There are many agencies available that offer employment opportunities for adults with Down syndrome, such as Aptus, JVS Toronto and Oden.  They work closely with a job coach or mentor to slowly ease themselves into the position.  It is important to find the right role for the individual’s personality and capabilities.

Adults require additional support in mastering life skills such as cooking.  They are capable of learning to cook simple and healthy meals independently.  With encouragement and positive feedback they are capable of more than we think they are.

As the adults with Down syndrome age, they are at a higher risk of developing gastrointestinal issues, sleep apnea, obesity, heart problems, Alzheimer’ and leukemia.  Seeing a doctor regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are the best ways to identify complications early and treat them.

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“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” – Mother Theresa