World Down Syndrome Day: Activities, Events and Support Available

World Down Syndrome Day is on March 21 and all people living with Down Syndrome, as well as their family and friends, are encouraged to get involved and show their support. The day is designed to raise awareness about this condition and celebrate the achievements of people living with Down Syndrome. If you would like to get involved, find out more about events to engage in as well as the many activities you can do with your loved one.

What is Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome, also known as Down’s Syndrome, is a condition where a person has an extra chromosome.

Usually, people have 46 chromosomes. In Down Syndrome, a person will have an extra copy of one of these chromosomes, often called chromosome 21. This is called ‘trisomy’ and Down Syndrome is also referred to as Trisomy 21 by medical professionals.

When a baby is born with Down Syndrome, it changes their physical and mental development which can cause challenges later in life, as they usually have a lower IQ than other people.

Down Syndrome in Australia

There are around 14,000 people currently living with Down Syndrome in Australia. It occurs in roughly one in every 1100 people. It is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition in the country.

The average life expectancy of a person with Down Syndrome in Australia is 60 years, which has dramatically improved in recent years.

Causes of Down Syndrome

No one knows exactly what causes the extra chromosome 21 that leads to Down Syndrome. It is believed a range of different factors could contribute. However, one of the recognised risk factors for having a baby with Down Syndrome is being an older mother. When a woman 35 years or older becomes pregnant, they are more likely to have a pregnancy affected by Down Syndrome than women who become pregnant at a younger age.

Diagnosis of Down Syndrome

There are three diagnostic tests used to confirm Down Syndrome. All of these can occur while the baby is still in the womb. These tests include:

• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which examines material from the placenta
• Amniocentesis, which examines the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby
• Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS), which examines blood from the umbilical cord.

Features of Down Syndrome

There are several common physical characteristics often displayed. These include:

• Smaller stature
• Small hands and feet
• Shorter neck
• Small ears
• Flattened face
• A single line across the palm of the hand (called a palmar crease).

 The Importance of Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day, which has been officially recognised by the United Nations since 2012.

In the past, people with Down Syndrome have been undervalued by society as a whole. Even today, some people with the condition face stigma and a perception that they cannot achieve the things that people without the syndrome can.

However, people with Down Syndrome possess their own special talents and abilities. World Down Syndrome Day is a time to celebrate the lives and achievements of people with Down Syndrome and to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion.

Everyone with Down Syndrome can contribute to their community. The Day focuses on sharing the stories and successes of people living with the condition, to show those who have Down Syndrome that they can accomplish anything they want.

It is also a fantastic way to show businesses and employers that people with Down Syndrome have a lot to offer. Data from the United States shows that only around 57 per cent of people with Down Syndrome are employed. People with Down Syndrome are capable of doing a range of different jobs across many industries, and it is important businesses make an effort to increase their diversity and inclusion by hiring more people with Down Syndrome. There are also initiatives in place to help people with Down Syndrome build confidence around applying for roles and attending job interviews, as well as building job-ready skills to prepare them for the workplace.

Activities and Events for Adults with Down Syndrome

Lots of Socks Event

Down Syndrome Australia hosts the Lots of Socks event, which is focused on raising awareness and encouraging people to wear bright and colourful socks on 21st March.

Participants are encouraged to wear official ‘lots of socks’ branded socks, or any other pair of socks to make a statement: bright socks, long socks, and printed socks. Some people choose to wear three socks to represent three chromosomes. Down Syndrome Australia provide official Lots of Socks branded socks for sale on their online shop. 

Lots of Socks is a fantastic and easy way for people with Down Syndrome and their loved ones to get involved and build awareness in their communities. Bright socks are a conversation starter that can instigate important discussions about inclusion for people with Down Syndrome in our society.

Tea for Trisomy 21

During March, many organisations and businesses host a morning tea called a Tea for Trisomy 21, to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day and start the conversation about the condition. The morning tea is a great opportunity to hear from people about their own personal experiences, whether by having the condition themselves or having a loved one living with it.

Morning teas can also be used as fundraising events to seek donations, which go towards research into Down Syndrome and programs designed to help people living with Down Syndrome to live more fulfilling and independent lives.

Family Fun Day

Down Syndrome Victoria host an annual Family Fun Day to mark  the Day. In 2022, they are inviting all participants to the Werribee Open Range Zoo for a fun day out exploring the animals, taking a safari tour, or enjoying a picnic. This family friendly event is fun for all ages and a great way to celebrate the day with friends and loved ones connected to the condition.

Virtual Coffee Catch Ups

Throughout the year, Down Syndrome Australia host a series of monthly virtual coffee catch ups for people living with Down Syndrome and their loved ones. These online events are a great opportunity to meet other people with the condition, share information and experiences, and provide advice to others in the community. The conversation is informal, allowing everyone the opportunity to bring up any topics or questions they might want to discuss.

Arts and Crafts

People with Down Syndrome are often very creative and have a unique perspective on the world. They are also very good at focusing on tasks for extended periods of time, which can mean that they particularly enjoy art and craft activities. Some fun options include making paper chains to decorate a space, making collages by cutting up and pasting from old magazines and newspapers, or learning to knit or crochet. Arts and craft activities are a social engagement that can be enjoyed with friends.

Cooking

Many people with Down Syndrome would like to increase their independence and ability to be self-sufficient. Cooking classes and activities that improve skills in the kitchen are a great way to increase confidence and to learn valuable life skills. Cooking classes can focus on the techniques required to prepare food, the nutritional information needed to make healthy meals, and the best ways to buy and store ingredients. Cooking is another fantastic activity to share with friends and family, as well as eating the feast you have created!

Fitness

People with Down Syndrome have different physical attributes to others, but it is still vital that they remain fit and healthy through a program of regular exercise. Tailored exercise classes can be created to cater for their unique capabilities and level of fitness. They can also be made fun for the participants by choosing a type of exercise they enjoy, like a dance class or an aerobics session with music. For those without access to a gym or other exercise space, there are lots of home workout videos that can be enjoyed from anywhere.

Games and Puzzles

Training the brain and increasing problem-solving skills is beneficial for all people, but it can be especially good for people with Down Syndrome. Games and puzzles such as word searches, crosswords, sudoku, mazes and card games are both fun and educational. They can be completed solo or with friends for a more social activity. Games and puzzles can be bought from toy shops, newsagencies and other similar places.

What Kinds of Support do People Living with Down Syndrome Need?

People living with Down Syndrome will have a diverse range of skills, capabilities and interests. The level of support they require in day-to-day life will vary greatly between individuals. However, there are some generalised support options and services available to access.

At Home Support

Adults with Down Syndrome will have different living arrangements based on their individual circumstances. Many choose to continue living at home with their families, where they have a high level of support. Others will decide to live independently in their own home, or in a group home setting with others who also have Down Syndrome or other conditions. Whatever the arrangement, at home support is available to ensure that people with Down Syndrome are well looked after and have a high quality of life.

Medical Support

People with Down Syndrome are more likely to suffer from health problems that usually affect older people. This includes dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. They also have a higher prevalence of conditions including obesity, diabetes, eye problems, high cholesterol, thyroid problems, and leukemia. Due to these factors, it is vital that people living with Down Syndrome retain good relationships with their health professionals and are proactive about their wellbeing. Getting regular health check ups and being aware of the symptoms of some diseases and conditions that commonly affect people with Down Syndrome can help to keep them healthier in the long term.

Employment Support

Getting and keeping a job can be a challenge for people living with the stigma that can sometimes be associated with Down Syndrome. However, support is available to help people living with the condition to access skills training, workshops, employment opportunities and more. There are also opportunities to volunteer and build skills and confidence before pursuing paid work and some programs will connect employers with people looking for work.

Relationships

Many people with Down Syndrome date, get married, and participate in loving and healthy relationships. These sorts of partnerships can be highly beneficial for people with the condition. For some assistance in socialising and meeting romantic partners, people with the condition can access assistance and attend specialised events and mixers. They can also access information about sex, STDs and birth control so they can remain safe within these relationships.

Community Outings and Social Events

Community is important for people with Down Syndrome to connect with each other, share stories and advice, and learn about their experiences. Special events created for people with Down Syndrome and their loved ones to attend help to foster this sense of inclusion and belonging. It can also foster a strong support network for people living with the condition.

How Can Homage Support People Living with Down Syndrome?

Homage offers a range of at home care services that can support people living with Down Syndrome. Our experienced and compassionate Care Professionals can assist with daily living and domestic assistance, including tasks like shopping, cooking, taking them to medical appointments, and providing companionship.

This March 21, take the opportunity to celebrate people living with Down Syndrome by taking part in some of the events happening near you. If one of your loved ones is living with the condition, there is plenty of support available to help them live at home, access work, meet other people and engage in social engagements.