How to Help Loved Ones with Down Syndrome Build Confidence and Independence in Adulthood

By developing greater independence in adulthood, people with Down syndrome can have more control over their lives and build confidence in their abilities. However, independence doesn’t have to mean doing everything alone.

With the right level of support from loved ones, adults with Down syndrome can be encouraged to work towards their goals and develop their skills while knowing that help is just around the corner when they need it.

What Does Confidence and Independence Mean for Someone with Down Syndrome?

Independence for people with Down syndrome can look different from person to person, depending on their abilities and support needs. For one person, a goal might involve travelling independently or managing their own finances. For someone else, it could mean taking part in activities they enjoy or learning a new skill.

People with Down syndrome can be given opportunities to develop their independence, with support from friends, family, and carers when needed. Building confidence can happen naturally as they take part in new experiences and develop their skills over time.

It’s important to provide the right level of support while giving someone the chance to do things for themselves. Let’s take a close look at how you can do this:

Knowing When to Offer Support or Step Back

Being there to offer support when it’s needed can help people with Down syndrome build their confidence. The important part is knowing when to step in. It’s important to provide the right level of support while giving someone the chance to do things for themselves. For some adults with Down syndrome, having the right support at home can make it easier to maintain routines, take part in activities and work towards greater independence. Let’s take a close look at how you can do this:

Signs they might need support:

• They appear overwhelmed or frustrated
• They try to avoid the task
• They hesitate for a long time or seem unsure

Signs you should step back:

• They’re taking time to do a task but still making progress
• They’re actively engaged rather than appearing frustrated
• If they make mistakes, they notice and carry on

Helping Develop New Skills and Set Goals

Rather than setting goals based on what you think they should be working towards, ask them what they want to achieve. This allows them to have their own voice, helping them feel more in control while also building their confidence and independence. If they have difficulty communicating verbally, consider other ways they can express their preferences and pay attention to their daily routines, interests and abilities.

Look at what they can do already, and use this as a starting point. A goal might involve finding a new hobby, preparing a meal, or making new friends. When creating goals, make them realistic and tailored to the person, as levels of independence differ for everyone. Try breaking tasks down into smaller steps, as this can make them more achievable.

Explore Benefits Available for Adults with Down Syndrome

There are several benefits available for people with Down syndrome to help them live independently. For example, a blue badge allows people to park closer to their destination, such as the supermarket. You can also apply for financial benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP). PIP is available to people aged 16 to State Pension age with a long-term physical or mental condition or disability that affects their ability to get around or carry out daily activities.

Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group

The Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group is a volunteer-led charity supporting people living with Down’s syndrome and their families in Swindon, Chippenham, Devizes and the surrounding area.

They’ve been supporting people with Down’s syndrome, along with their families, carers and everyone with an interest in Down’s syndrome, since the Group was founded in 1984. They provide a wide range of activities and support from birth through adulthood and beyond. Visit the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group website to learn more about the support they have available.

Written by Rosie Buckley

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