The History and Amazing Advancements in Down Syndrome Therapy
Our society has come a long way in understanding Down Syndrome. Today, a person diagnosed with the condition will lead a happy, fulfilled, and productive life. With tons of activities and support opportunities, including job placement, athletic events, and special education, everyone is offered an opportunity to meet their potential. The medical history of treatment of people with Down Syndrome is a fascinating trek over the years of understanding mental disabilities and the complexity of the human mind and mental health.
It was in 1838, that the first paper describing the symptoms of what we understand today as a mental disability was described. Of course, we’ve highly advanced the adjectives used to describe the condition, as before it was really understood, people with Down Syndrome were often sidelined or discriminated against. In 1866, advocates for intellectual disabilities such as John Langdon Down linked the population with certain physical characteristics and advanced the understanding of the condition.
Life Expectancy Increases Over the Decades
In 1965, previous terms used to describe the condition were dropped and the name is officially changed to Down Syndrome, after Langdon Down. The life expectancy of someone with Down Syndrome starts considerably low and improves over the years. In 1929 it was said the lifespan of someone with the condition was only nine years, in 1946 it reached up to 12 years. It was until the 1970s that the life expectancy rose to about 25 years and almost thirty years later. In 1997, that number rose to 49 years. Finally, in 2006, with millions and millions of invested research dollars, testing, research, lab tests, social programs, and better understanding, the life expectancy of someone with Down Syndrome is 60 years.
How Treatment and Therapy Can Help
So what is the role of a therapist and medical professionals when it comes to dealing with people with the condition? Every case is different. Just like everyone, we all have unique qualities, characteristics, and idiosyncrasies that make us who we are. At Pasitos Clinic, we treat every patient on an individual basis and this goes for our Down Syndrome patients, as well. We want to make sure that we cater a plan to you and you specific circumstances.
Encourage a Productive Life with Therapy and Understanding
Today, thanks to the support and the advanced understanding, people with the condition can live long and healthy lives! If you want more information regarding treatments and therapies for your child or loved one, then give Pasitos Clinic a call and we’ll embark on the journey to good health together.