Down Syndrome - Visions for the 21st Century (Paperback)

More than 350,000 individuals in the United States alone are affected by Down syndrome, a genetic disorder related to the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Down Syndrome: Visions for the 21st Century is designed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of the current issues of self-determination, education, and advocacy, as well as the most recent research developments.

Providing a comprehensive survey of the clinical, educational, developmental, psychosocial, and transitional issues relevant to people with Down syndrome, the book is structured to meet the needs of parents and professionals alike. The controversial topics of alternative and nonconventional therapies are included alongside the best practices of top experts in the fields of family support, supported living, and life in the community. Down Syndrome incorporates the newest developments concerning issues of sexuality, inclusion, transition into adulthood, and legislation and features a discussion of the implications of the Human Genome Project and the sequencing of chromosome 21. The book comprises ten chapters covering:

• Self-Determination
• Self-Advocacy
• Advocacy
• Role of the Family
• Health and Clinical Care
• Research
• Psychosocial Issues
• Education/Inclusion
• Communication, Math, and Language Skills
• Turning the Vision into Reality

Down Syndrome: Visions for the 21st Century assumes the stated mission of the National Down Syndrome Society: to ensure that all individuals with Down syndrome are provided the opportunity to achieve their potential in community life. Parents, family members, individuals with Down syndrome, advocates, educators, and physicians will benefit from this peerless guide.