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In the current crisis, many people are using screens more, both for learning and for entertainment, so it’s very important to be aware of eye health. With optometrists reopening shortly, now might be a good time to consider whether your family member with Down syndrome is due for an eye test.
We are delighted to be able to share the wonderful news that Margaret Killoran has recovered from Covid-19. Margaret is in her forties and from Tubbercurry in Sligo. When Margaret tested positive for Covid-19 in April she was cared for in Medical South in Sligo University Hospital for three weeks.
The HSE Community Operations newsletter is an accessible and user-friendly means of understanding the currently issued Guidance Documents, videos and webinars that have been developed by the National HSE Disabilities team, specific to COVID-19.
The Department of Health has recently published new guidance on the ‘Ethical Considerations Relating to Critical Care in the context of COVID-19’. Down Syndrome Ireland, along with other groups, immediately looked for clarification and reassurance that people with disabilities will have equal access to critical care should they need it.
Down Syndrome Ireland has co-signed a document on the rights of people with disabilities during the COVID-19 period. The statement calls on the government to adhere to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
There is a lot of fear around at the moment, and for very understandable reasons. Often fear, anxiety and uncertainty can trigger (or amplify) behaviour problems.
As you may know from the communication last week regarding fever and testing, we are communicating with the HSE, and will try to ensure that they are taking into account the needs of people with Down syndrome and their families, so do let us know if there are particular issues you’d like us to raise.
Here is Dublin branch member Josh Garvey (15), sharing a wonderful message to all our members and their families at this most difficult time in all our lives.
Health passports are very important for people with disabilities, especially people with communications difficulties. A health passport allows health professionals to treat the person and cater for their individual needs.
The Covid-19 Public Information Booklet (Easy Read) has just been released online by the HSE, it features commonly asked questions about the virus - how to protect yourself, how to tell if you have the virus, who should be extra careful and steps to keeping well while self-isolating at home.
