The Center works with adult patients with Down syndrome from across the Midwest and is working with more adults with Down syndrome than any other provider in the nation. Without the services of the Center, these patients would receive less adequate care. The Center's multidisciplinary approach to comprehensive medical care, with a strong emphasis on preventive medicine provides practical approaches to health education and health risk reduction. In addition to primary care, the Center provides a variety of education and social activities that are so important to everyone's quality of life. Nutrition and aerobics classes help patients to address obesity problems.
Music therapy is available, as are visits to work sites to assist with job readiness.
Opportunities to meet new people, make friends and share happy occasions are found in regular gatherings organized by the Center in conjunction with the National Association for Down Syndrome. The 20th Century Club Juniors' grant to the Adult Down Syndrome Center was made possible through the club's annual benefit fashion show. According to Anne Nelson, co-chair of the 1997 Benefit, the Adult Down Syndrome Center was chosen because the organization felt they could strongly impact people's lives through their support. Nelson pointed out that another motivation for awarding the grant involved educating the general public about the many talents and capabilities of people living with Down syndrome. I am not sure people are generally aware that those with Down syndrome are living long and healthy lives.