As individuals living with Down syndrome live and thrive into old age, some additional health conditions may become more prevalent. Each individual with Down syndrome is different, and not every person will have additional health conditions. Many of these associated conditions can be treated with medication, surgery, or other interventions. Common Health Conditions for People… Continue reading Health Challenges for Individuals with Down Syndrome

The new school year will be here in less than a month for many families, and parents are beginning to think ahead to fall. How do we prepare our children?

The Adversity Into Adventure World Tour kicked off on Monday, June 10th in Santa Monica, CA at the beginning of Route 66. With a mission to...

Plan Ahead: Three Key Steps for Aging in Place There is no wrong time to think about, or plan for, aging in place. Many of us wish to stay in our own homes as we age, and to maintain independence for as long as possible. By starting early, you can organize the resources and coordinate… Continue reading Aging in Place: Home Safety Tips for Older Adults

Mother’s Day is complicated for many reasons. For those of us who spent years trying to conceive, we remember that day as a celebration for what felt like the rest of the world and absolute isolation for us. For those of us who have lost a child, this day is full of mourning. For those… Continue reading When Mother’s Day is Complicated

Adolescence is a time of immense physical and emotional growth, and of wanting independence. A teen with special needs is no different...

Disability is not a burden, and ableism is not heroic. I recently saw a meme on Instagram that depicted two people holding hands – one in a wheelchair and the other standing. Over the person standing it reads “not a hero” and over the wheelchair user it says “not a burden”. It got me thinking,… Continue reading Disability and Relationships

Before explaining waivers, let’s take a minute to review the government-funded health programs available in the United States for those who meet eligibility requirements. What is Medicare? Medicare is federal health insurance for anyone age 65 and older, and some people under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions. Medicare is run by CMS, the Centers… Continue reading What Are Medicaid Waivers?

In-Home Supportive Services Make A Difference Providing specialized care for children with disabilities takes a mental, emotional, physical and financial toll on families. In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a crucial aid that can calm the overwhelming process. When I was injured in 1999, I was no longer a minor and filed for IHSS services on… Continue reading In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) For Minors