Health & Wellness Month - Support for Individuals with IDD
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “health and wellness”? You probably think of eating healthy, staying hydrated, and exercising. All those are correct, but that’s just the beginning.
The health and wellness industry has expanded our understanding of how to take care of ourselves so we can live long, healthy lives. August is Health and Wellness Month, a time that encourages everyone to make small changes that can have a big impact.
Our definition of health and wellness now includes topics like:
- Mental and emotional wellness
- Regular check-ups
- Stress management
- Social connection and community
Health & Wellness for Individuals with IDD
For individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), this is extra important as they may face unique health challenges and need support to maintain health and wellness. For example, individuals with Down Syndrome face higher rates of heart disease, autoimmune diseases, early aging, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Some of the barriers individuals with IDD might face include access to specialized care, support, transportation, understanding complex medical information, or communication challenges.
One tool I use to help my adult son, who has Down Syndrome, with health and wellness is a medical alert band. They are not just for seniors, and they save lives every day! Companies like MedicAlert now offer metal bands that fit over an Apple watch band along with bracelet and necklace options.
With a quick scan of the QR code on the bracelet or metal band, police and first responders have instant access to information about the wearer.
In emergencies, these bracelets help first responders learn about medical conditions, medical implants, allergies, medications, emergency contacts, and personal information about the wearer. This can also help first responders if your loved one wanders off or gets lost. My son knows to show his MedicAlert band in the event of an emergency.
Benefits of Medical Alert Jewelry
For the person with IDD, it can reduce anxiety knowing that help is only a scan away, which makes them feel safer. It also promotes independence and confidence in doing more on their own. For families and caregivers, it offers peace of mind knowing someone will be able to help their child or adult when they can’t be there.
Multiple companies offer a medical alert option for your child, adult, or loved one with IDD. The only one I can endorse is MedicAlert as that’s the company we use. Consider this list a starting point for your research.
- MedicAlert Foundation
- American Medical ID
- Lauren’s Hope
- The ID Band Company
- ROAD iD
- Medical Tags
- Medical Guardian
Additional Support and Tools
In addition to medical alert jewelry, other practical tools can help support your loved one.
1. Let them carry a simple health card in a wallet or pocket.
2. If they carry a phone, make sure your contact number is listed under I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency).
3. Consider self-advocacy training so people with IDD can communicate their needs and preferences in healthcare settings.
4. Engage in family or staff training so caregivers understand how to provide the best support.
This is an extraordinary journey! Develop your personal plan to support health and wellness, and safety and security for your loved one with IDD. It helps encourage independence and offer peace of mind for everyone.
