Dispelling the myths about individuals with Down Syndrome. By Linda A. Bonner.
There are many misconceptions about people with Down Syndrome. These misconceptions are a result of many factors including:
- Information about the syndrome has changed dramatically (for the better) as inhumane institutions are being eliminated.
- The lack of medical and scientific research makes it hard to get accurate, up to date information (this too is changing for the better).
Many national and global Down Syndrome organizations are working hard to improve research, medical care, and overall services and support for individuals with Down Syndrome.
Let’s look at a few of the myths vs. reality.
Myth #1: Down syndrome is a rare disorder.
- The truth is that Down Syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. About one in every 770 babies born in the US are born with Down Syndrome, about 5,100 births per year.
Myth #2: Children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.
- The truth is that most children with Down Syndrome are born to women younger than 35 because younger women have more children. However, the chance of having a child with Down Syndrome increases with the age of the mother, especially after age 35.
Myth #3: All individuals with Down syndrome have a severe cognitive disability.
- The truth is that most individuals with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive or intellectual disability. Like any other individual, they each have unique gifts, talents, and abilities that make them contributing members of our communities.
Myth #4: individuals with Down Syndrome are always happy.
- The truth is that individuals with Down Syndrome have feelings just like anyone else. They experience a full range of emotions and can be mad, upset, or sad as well as happy, joyful, and content.
Myth #5: Individuals with Down Syndrome have a short life span.
- In the 1900’s the average life expectancy was only 9 years. In 1984 that number had increased to age 28. Today individuals with Down Syndrome have an average life expectance of 60 years with some living into their 80’s.
Myth #6: People with Down Syndrome are uneducable and can’t learn to read or write.
- Quite the contrary. The majority of children with Down Syndrome not only learn to read and write, but by law they are intitled to attend regular public school with their peers. They may require adaptations for their learning style but with well-trained teachers and support from parents and the school system, they learn and grow like other students.
- In the US individuals with Down Syndrome graduate from high school and many go on to post-secondary education.
Myth #7: People with Down Syndrome aren’t employable and can’t hold a job.
- More employment opportunities for people with Down Syndrome are available today than ever before. Individuals with Down Syndrome hold many types of jobs in companies, offices, stores, and non-profits.
- There are currently many individuals with Down Syndrome that are authors, poets, artists, business owners, models, actors and more! Employers say that employing individuals with Down Syndrome makes their workplace better.
Myth #8: People with Down Syndrome can’t live independently.
- An increasing number of adults with Down Syndrome in the U.S. are living independently with limited assistance from family member or state services. There have been great advances in independent living communities for people with IDD, organizations dedicated to helping families find the right living option for their loved one, as well as community homes where people with Down Syndrome live as a family.
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