community support
GENETIC COUNSELLING
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Genetic counsellors are health professionals with specialized training and experience in the areas of medical genetics and counselling. Genetic counsellors help families understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of how gentics contributes to a medical condition.
INFANT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
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The Infant Development Program (IDP) is a family-centered, home-based, consultative program that serves children from birth to three years old—who are at risk for, or who already have a delay in development. Programs are available throughout British Columbia. Children are eligible if they are considered at risk for developmental delays, are already experiencing a delay, or have a diagnosis. IDP promotes maximum development through evidence-based interventions, consultations and education. Each program brings parents and professionals together to help children overcome developmental difficulties.
SOCIAL SUPPORT
(parent support groups, counselling)
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We all need people who we can depend on during good times and during bad times. Social support is the physical and emotional comfort given to us by our family, friends, co-workers and others. It’s knowing that we are part of a community of people who love and care for us. Need help and don’t know where to start? No problem! Look below to find a service near you. Because together, we can. *ref: https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/visions/social-support-vol6/social-support
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
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Speech-language pathologists screen, assess, identify and treat—speech, language, voice, fluency (stuttering), swallowing, and feeding problems for all age groups—in addition to advocating for the prevention of these conditions. Individuals with Down syndrome may benefit from speech-language pathology services to foster communication-related skills.
PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
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Physical and occupational therapy help people to live as independently as possible. Difficulties with specific skills (e.g., physical, psychosocial, life) may affect quality-of-life or one’s progress in school, work, and/or at home. The goal of physical and occupational therapy is to find ways for an individual to participate as fully as possible in their daily activities.
BEHAVIOURAL SUPPORT
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We all have good days, and sometimes, we have bad days. Some behaviours can negatively impact your child’s and/or your family’s life. Families may start to avoid certain activities (e.g., going to stores, swimming) due to your child’s behaviour. Behavioural support can help by working with individuals with DS, and their families—to address behaviours early, so that they do not become entrenched.
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
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In BC, each health authority has a specialized service to support individuals with developmental disabilities—who also have a mental health condition. Individuals may struggle with behavioural challenges, that are often influenced by mental illness and developmental disability. Check with your local health authority to learn more about this service, and the referral process.
TRANSITION PLANNING
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The ON TRAC model and tools have been developed to help youth, families, and care providers prepare for the changes that occur in adulthood—and the differences to expect, as they transfer and participate in the adult health care system. Additional support for other stages of life is available through the Government of British Columbia.
FAMILY & GERIATRIC CARE
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The plans and decisions you make today, will better prepare you for tomorrow. As we age, we need to ensure that the necessary supports are in place: health, safety, transportation, housing, finance, and legal matters. By considering these essential areas, and developing a plan—you can help to ensure a smooth transition.
OTHER
HealthLinkBC also provides a list of family and social support resources for individuals with developmental disabilities: Health Link BC. The Government of British Columbia provides programs and services to individuals with disabilities: Government of BC—Supports & Services, Government of BC—Disability Assistance