Profile of Families who Attend the Clinic of Comprehensive Care for Children with Down Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction. Down syndrome is the main genetic cause of intellectual disability. the arrival of a child with this characteristic can alter the way of coexistence between the family affecting the development and child care. The presence and support of the family is necessary to improve quality of life of the person with Down syndrome. Objective. This study analyzed the characteristics and dynamics of families who attend the Care Clinic Comprehensive Institute for Children with Down Syndrome National Pediatrics. Method. It was implemented a questionnaire where it was identified that age average of parents at birth of the son was 26-35 years old, with an education basic, tendency to form traditional families and a average of two children. Results. In the dynamics family, a good relationship was observed, as well such as the support of siblings and maternal grandparents in child care. Also, a lack was reported of support from the father, as well as a bad or no relationship between the paternal grandparents and the children. In the school dynamics it was observed that the majority of children attend special schools where They study preschool and primary school and establish a good adaptation and positive changes in them. Conclusions. These results help to understand the characteristics of the Mexican family with one child with Down syndrome and develop strategies to better orientation of these.