Today, people with Down syndrome are living longer and healthier lives than ever before. Over the last several decades, the life expectancy of people with Down syndrome has doubled. In this presentation, Brian Chicoine, MD, will review the health changes, past and present, that have contributed to that improvement, including the shift to greater participation of people with Down syndrome in their own health promotion. He will discuss some of the hurdles to continued improvement, such as the need for healthcare professionals who provide informed and respectful healthcare for individuals with Down syndrome. Dr. Chicoine will also highlight ways in which these hurdles are being addressed and can continue to be addressed in the future.

This presentation will cover the development of social skills in individuals with Down syndrome from birth through adulthood. Social skills are crucial for building relationships, navigating daily interactions, participating in school and work, and achieving a higher quality of life. This presentation will emphasize a developmental progression of skills—starting with foundational abilities in early childhood and building toward more complex interpersonal competencies in adolescence and adulthood, including fostering meaningful friendships and resolving conflicts with others. This presentation will allow you to walk away with a better understanding of how to recognize where they may be weaknesses and what steps should be taken to enhance these skills for all ages. 

Planning for the future of a loved one with special needs can be overwhelming—especially when thinking about the question no one wants to ask: “What happens after I’m gone?” This presentation is designed to help families prepare thoughtfully and practically for the long-term care, support, and financial stability of their loved one with disabilities. 

Join attorney Ellen Cookman for a clear and compassionate discussion of the most up-to-date tools and strategies in special needs planning, including: 

• Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) 
• CalABLE Accounts 
• Public Benefits & Eligibility 
• Letter of Intent 

This presentation is ideal for parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting individuals with disabilities. Whether you’re just beginning to plan or need a refresher on the latest legal updates, this session will provide both clarity and actionable guidance.

Some health conditions such as thyroid disorders and sleep apnea are more common in people with Down syndrome compared to people without Down syndrome. Other conditions such as high blood pressure and many solid tumor cancers are less common. In this presentation, Brian Chicoine, MD, will describe the prevalence, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of physical and mental health conditions that adults with Down syndrome may experience. He will discuss common clinical scenarios based on his more than 35 years of caring for people with Down syndrome. Dr. Chicoine will also highlight different types of resources that can be used by people with Down syndrome and those who care for, work with, and support them. 

This session will provide an overview of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) healthcare guidelines for children with Down Syndrome, from infancy through adolescence. We will review recommended screenings, common medical concerns, and tips for partnering with providers.

Join us to review the new statewide IPP template for intellectual and developmental disabilities’ services, discuss helpful tools and tips, as well as best practices. You’ll be ready for your best IPP meeting ahead!