Dr. Olaf:
I must admit, that I struggled as well to find opportunities for young adults such as your son. I will need several replies to address it:
The activities on the Hamilton Down Syndrome Association for young adults unfortunately have an age limit of 21. I spoke with colleagues at our Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre and they are aware of the lack of opportunities and there is a group working on setting up a program for young adults over 21, but this will still take a while.
I am also aware of T.E.A.D Equestrian Association for the Disabled (tead.on.ca). They are slowly reopening and might have an opportunity for volunteering, if working with animals interests your son.
With regards to seeing a doctor, we recommend to visit a general practitioner who are usually familiar with the general guidelines for health monitoring of people with Down syndrome and can then decide if a specialist appointment is indicated.
Here is a link to the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians with more information: familydoctor.org/down-syndrome- Wishing you and your son all the best!
