Resources | Adult Down Syndrome Center

Create a Getting Dressed Visual

Author: Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Occupational Therapist, Adult Down Syndrome Center

The images and template below can be used by individuals with Down syndrome and their families to create a visual showing the clothing that they should put on when getting dressed. Instructi

The Groove in People with Down Syndrome

Author: Brian Chicoine, MD and Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Adult Down Syndrome Center

Key Points The groove is a preference for sameness, repetition, or routine. Many (but not all) people with Down syndrome have grooves. There are advantages and disadvantages to having grooves. Flexibi

Nutrition and Hydration Apps

Author: Monica Prindiville, OTS and Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Occupational Therapy Student and Occupational Therapist

There are numerous factors to consider when deciding what to eat and drink including nutritional content, dietary restrictions and allergies, convenience, cost, and taste preferences. The apps listed

Down Syndrome Clinic Lists

Author: GLOBAL, NDSC, NDSS - Resource

Several national Down syndrome organizations maintain lists of Down syndrome clinics in the United States. If there is a clinic near you but adults are not seen by its providers, the clinic may be abl

Psychotherapy for Individuals with Down Syndrome

Author: Abby Rowley, LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Adult Down Syndrome Center

Key Points Some people with Down syndrome benefit from psychotherapy. Therapists work with individuals with a variety of skills, needs, and goals. Psychotherapy is often one part of a treatment plan t

Grief and Loss Podcast Episodes

Author: Rose Reif, LCMHC, CRC, BC-TMH - Multiple Organizations

Rose Reif, a licensed clinical mental health counselor, certified rehabilitation counselor, and qualified developmental disability and mental health professional, has been featured on two podcast epis

Behavior Change

Author: Brian Chicoine, MD - Medical Director, Adult Down Syndrome Center

Any and all behavior change should be viewed as a possible communication tool. For some people with Down syndrome (DS), like some without DS, a behavior change may be a form of communication. This is

Working with Healthcare Providers: Giving a Voice and Supporting Adults with IDD Webinar Recording

Author: Brian Chicoine, MD - Medical Director, Adult Down Syndrome Center

Brian Chicoine, MD, presented a webinar called "Working with Healthcare Providers: Giving a Voice and Supporting Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities" on October 5

Getting Ear Wax Removed

Author: Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Occupational Therapist, Adult Down Syndrome Center

This Getting Ear Wax Removed Visual explains what happens when we get our ears cleaned out. This visual can help individuals with Down syndrome know what to expect when g

At-Home Treatments for Common Health Conditions of People with Down Syndrome Webinar Recording (9/13/2023)

Author: Brian Chicoine, MD - Medical Director, Adult Down Syndrome Center

The video below is a recording of a webinar presented by Brian Chicoine, MD, on September 13, 2023. In this webinar, Dr. Chicoine describes common health conditions experienced by people with Down syn

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Author: Allison Schnitzler, MD and Brian Chicoine, MD - Family Medicine, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital

Key Points Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is also known as heartburn or reflux. GERD is common in people with Down syndrome (DS). There are a variety of things that can be done at home to redu

How to Plan a Date

Author: Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Occupational Therapist, Adult Down Syndrome Center

There are many things to think about when planning a date such as who you will ask, when and where you will go, how much it will cost, and how you will get to and from the date. The handouts below can

Chronic Cough in Adults with Down Syndrome

Author: Ravi Shah, MD and Brian Chicoine, MD - Family Medicine, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital

Key Points Chronic cough is a cough that lasts more than eight weeks (four weeks in a child). There are many reasons for a chronic cough. Three common causes in people with Down syndrome (DS) include

Regression in Persons with Down Syndrome

Author: Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group - USA - Current Consensus Update for Families

Regression in Persons with Down Syndrome: Current Consensus Update for Families The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group - USA (DSMIG-USA) developed a consensus update for families on Down

Getting an Ultrasound Visual

Author: Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Occupational Therapist, Adult Down Syndrome Center

This Getting an Ultrasound Visual explains what happens when we get an ultrasound. This visual can help individuals with Down syndrome know what to expect when going for

Celiac Disease

Author: Robert Campbell, DO and Brian Chicoine, MD - Family Medicine, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital

Key Points Celiac disease is caused by a sensitivity to gluten. It is more common in people with Down syndrome. It can be diagnosed through an assessment including a history, physical, blood work, and

Cerumen Impaction (Ear Wax Buildup)

Author: Brian Chicoine, MD - Medical Director, Adult Down Syndrome Center

Key Points Cerumen impaction is obstruction of the ear canal with ear wax. It is a problem that is more common in people with Down syndrome. There are treatments that can be done at home to prevent an

Tips for Cutting Fingernails and Toenails

Author: Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L - Occupational Therapist, Adult Down Syndrome Center

Cutting your nails is a personal hygiene task that must be completed regularly to maintain healthy and strong nails. In the list below, I have shared general tips to make trimming your nails easier an