Living with Down Syndrome

People with Down syndrome, whatever their age, are people first.

They are people with abilities, strengths and weaknesses like everyone else.

They may have additional needs but first they have the same needs as everyone else of their age group.

The quality of health care, education and community support provided to children and adults with Down syndrome makes a real difference to their progress throughout life.

This module provides an introduction to all the issues that need to be addressed to enable individuals with Down syndrome, and their families, to enjoy full and happy lives within their communities.

It offers an overview of the development of individuals with Down syndrome from infancy to adult life.

It also provides a summary of the causes of Down syndrome, the incidence and prevalence of the condition, life expectancy and associated education and health care needs.

Further modules in this series address each of these issues in detail.