Did you know? Many people with Down syndrome are successful in using CPAP machines to treat sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is more common in people with Down syndrome. Wearing a CPAP mask while sleeping at night is one treatment for sleep apnea. The following story was shared with us: A woman with Down syndrome was diagnosed with sleep apnea and struggled to use her new CPAP machine. Her friend, another woman with Down syndrome, also had sleep apnea and used her CPAP machine successfully and consistently. She encouraged her friend and gave her tips when they talked on the phone each night. This peer support helped the woman newly diagnosed with sleep apnea to use her machine successfully.

Peer support can be very beneficial when establishing new habits. Our Resource Library has a video on using a CPAP machine featuring two individuals with Down syndrome. The video may be helpful for individuals who struggle to use their CPAP machines. The video can be found at this link.