Adult and Aging Resources
We know how important and challenging it is to maintain a healthy, appropriately independent life, and hope these resources come in handy during decision making and life planning.
A Wedding Story
DSAMn’s Online Resources and Facebook Discussion Groups
Down Syndrome Association of MN Discussion Group: Our Private Group for Questions & Conversations
Minnesota Moms: Ages 12–18
Adult Matters (For Parents & Caregivers of Adults with Down syndrome)
Down Syndrome & Autism – Dual Diagnosis
Family Connectors
Family Connectors help parents navigate the complexities that come with raising a child with Down syndrome, including guidance regarding health care, education, county services, and other community resources.
Reach out for Family Connectors
Webinars and conferences
Webinars and conferences give parents and families access to trusted experts and the latest, most up-to-date information.
In addition, we’ve gathered helpful resources below, plus you can reach out to a Family Connector with specific questions or needs.
Historically, the majority of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have been unemployed or underemployed, although most are interested and able to work in the community. We believe teens and adults with Down syndrome should have the same opportunities as others to have a career based on their own personal interests and strengths, work in an inclusive environment with people with and without disabilities, receive comparable wages, and be free from workplace discriminations.
Contact us for help navigating employment resources
More Education and Employment Resources:
- Think College: Resources for Inclusive Education Options
- Disability Employment Initiative / Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
- Arc Guide to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services
- Arc Guide to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for Individuals Under Age 25
- Arc Guide to Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for Individuals Age 25 and Older
- PACER's National Parent Center on Transition and Employment
Like everyone else, adults who have Down syndrome need regular health care. Your loved one with Down syndrome should be going to the doctor for regular checkups. They also may need to be checked for certain health problems that are more common in people who have Down syndrome. Here are a few resources to get you started. Reach out to our Family Connectors with specific questions or resources.
More Health Care Resources:
- Adult Down Syndrome Center: Advocate Medical Group
- Aging with Down Syndrome: Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center
- Aging and Down Syndrome: A Health & Well-Being Guidebook, NDSS
- DSC2U: A personalized care plan for individuals with Down syndrome*
- Gillette Hospital Complex Care and Transition Services
- Medical Care Guidelines for Adults with Down Syndrome
- Medical Assistance: Resources from the Minnesota Department of Human Resources
- Mental Wellness in Adults with Down Syndrome: A Guide to Emotional and Behavioral Strengths and Challenges
- Minnesota Health Care Programs: Program Information and Eligibility Rules
- Sex Wellness: Programs Specifically for People with Intellectual Disabilities and Their Families
*DSAMN offers a subsidy to families to access DSC2U, contact us to learn more.
There are many reasons why people with Down syndrome start thinking about moving out. They may want their own space, more independence, or to be like their peers; or parents and caregivers may be getting older and thinking about the future. Whatever the reason, there are a number of different housing options. There is no right or wrong option although there may be different benefits to each – what matters is finding what’s right for your relative.
- Best Buddies Minnesota
- Darby’s Dancers: Minnesota Program Locations
- Down Syndrome Camp
- GiGi's Playhouse Twin Cities: Programs in St. Louis Park, Apple Valley, and Hudson, WI
- Highland Friendship Club: Social and Skill-Building Opportunities
- Special Olympics Minnesota: Revealing the champion in all of us.
- True Friends: Camp and Respite Experiences
- UpDown Funk at Curio Dance
- We Can Ride: Horse-Assisted Activities and Therapy
- Wilderness Inquiry: Camping and Canoe Trips
- Valley Friendship Club: Safe, Accessible Social Opportunities
- Arc of Minnesota: Promoting and Protecting Rights of All
- Disability Hub MN: Helping You Plan Your Best Life, Your Way
- Global Down Syndrome Foundation | Research, Care, Education, Advocacy
- Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities: Info, Education and Training
- Minnesota State Council on Disability: Advisors to Legislators
- National Down Syndrome Congress: National Info and Support Resource
- National Down Syndrome Society: Human Rights Organization
