If someone you love cares for an individual with Down syndrome, consider lending a helping hand by educating yourself on the condition. From using home health care to having a person to confide in, there are a number of ways you can support that special person in your life. When celebrating National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, reflect on the following ways this condition impacts caregivers and loved ones.

What to Know About Down Syndrome

What Is It?

Down syndrome is a condition that affects one out of every 700 babies born in the United States, or nearly 6,000 infants annually. Typically caused by an error in cell division, Down syndrome is a genetic abnormality in chromosome 21 that can cause a number of developmental and intellectual delays. These delays make it difficult or frustrating for the individual to participate in traditional school settings, and they may require the help of a home health service to accomplish chores around the home.

How Does It Impact Family Members?

Parents of children with Down syndrome must extensively and thoroughly plan for the future. While the child will require ongoing educational assistance, a home health care professional may also provide support and encouragement around the house. Since the average person with Down syndrome lives to be around 47 years of age, parents of these children often need to develop a care plan, which may include a combination of other responsible guardians and a home health care professional.

How Can Home Health Care Help?

Hiring a home health care professional can alleviate much of the stress and issues you may face when caring for an individual with Down syndrome. This professional can offer assistance in day-to-day tasks such as food preparation or laundry, as well as provide socialization and extra interaction with your loved one. Using a home health care service enables you to be a better parent to someone with Down syndrome because you have the additional support network needed to succeed.

For more than 10 years, the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services have provided important care services to individuals and families in the surrounding communities. Whether you need assistance for a loved one with Down syndrome or help for an aging parent, the home health care professionals offer compassionate and comprehensive care. To learn more about their services, visit them online. Call (314) 355-3679 to reach their Berkeley location, (636) 493-6488 for St. Charles, or (314) 773-4433 for St. Louis, MO.