| Most children with DS are born to older mothers |
Most children with Down Syndrome are born to women younger than 35 years old because younger women have more children. However, the likelihood of having a child with SD increases with the age of the mother, especially after age 35. |
| All the individuals with Down Syndrome look the same. |
There are some physical characteristics to individuals with Down Syndrome. Individuals with DS may have some or none of them. An individual with DS will resemble to the members of his family more than to an individual who has Down Syndrome. |
| Individuals with down syndrome can’t live the stages of a normal life. |
With the right support they can. Many of individuals with DS learn to talk and to walk, and many of them go in the public schools, pass their exams and have half-independent or fully independent life like others. |
| Individuals with DS don’t live longer. |
Nowadays, individuals with Down Syndrome can live until their sixties (60). Should be aware about the aspects of health that can accompany the syndrome. |
| People with DS are always happy and lovable. |
Socialization is a strength of the individuals with SD, and untouched by the presence of an extra chromosome. The manifestation of affection of the individuals with SD it is the same with other people. |
| Down Syndrome is hereditary and runs in families. |
Translocation, a type of Down Syndrome that accounts for 3 to 4 % of all cases, is the only type of Down Syndrome known to have a hereditary component. |
| People with DS are always sick. |
Though people with Down Syndrome are at an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems and thyroid conditions, advances in health care and treatment of these conditions have allowed for most individuals with DS to lead healthy lives. |
| Scientist know everything there is to know about DS. |
Though we know that an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21 causes the characteristics of Down Syndrome, researchers are making great strides in identifying how individual genes on chromosome 21 affect a person with Down Syndrome. Scientist now feel strongly that it will be possible to improve, correct or prevent many of the problems associated with DS in the future. |
| Adults with Down syndrome are the same as children with Down Syndrome. |
Adults with Down syndrome are not children, and should not be considered children. They enjoy activities and companionship with other adults, and have similar needs and feelings as their typical peers. |
| Adults with Down Syndrome are unemployable. |
Business employ adults with Down Syndrome for a variety of positions – in banks, corporations, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, offices and restaurants. Like anybody else, people with Down Syndrome want to have a job where their work will be valued. |
| Adults with Down Syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationship leading to marriage |
People with DS socialize and have meaningful friendships. Some choose to date, maintain ongoing relationships and marry. |
