Intellectual and Developmental Disability at Stanford
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Focus Group: Down Syndrome & Alzheimer's Disease
Stanford University is conducting a study to learn more about aging and Alzheimer’s Disease for adults with Down syndrome. They are looking for adults with Down syndrome and their family members/caregivers to participate.
You are eligible for this study if you are:
- An adult with Down syndrome (18 years old or older)
or
- A caregiver/family member of an adult with Down syndrome (18 years old or older).
In this study, you will:
- Attend a 90-minute focus group with up to 5 other participants over Zoom.
- Tell the research team about your experiences with and perspectives on aging and Alzheimer’s for adults with Down syndrome.
- Receive a $30 gift card for your time.
For more information or to express interest in participating, contact Megan Cvitanovic at mcvitano@stanford.edu or call 650-497-0938.
For complaints, concerns, or participant’s right questions, contact 1-866-680-2906.
Learn more about Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
What are Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities?
Intellectual and developmental disabilities, also known as IDDs, are a subset of disabilities. Developmental disabilities are conditions/ disorders that cause limitations in intellectual, physical, neurological, and/ or sensory functioning. Intellectual disability is the most common developmental disability affecting intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. IDD typically refers to when both intellectual and developmental disabilities are present.
Some examples include: Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Global Developmental Delay (GDD)
Get Involved in the Community
Volunteer with local organizations serving the local IDD population including Special Olympics Northern California, HOPE Services, Magical Bridge Foundation, and more!
Key Facts
- 1-3% of the global population has an IDD.
- Not all causes of IDD are known are understood. Some of the known causes of IDD include genetic mutations, additions, or deletions, prenatal exposure to substances, toxins, or infections, complications during birth, and environmental factors.
- While you are typically born with an Intellectual/ Developmental Disability, an Intellectual Disability can develop up until the age of 18, while a Developmental Disability can develop up until the age of 22.
- Some challenges with having an IDD include communication, social interactions, self-care, and independent living.
- Intellectual Disabilities are more common in low income countries, as are disabilities in general.
- Individuals with an IDD are more likely to experience poor health outcomes, victimization, and early death.
IDD-TRANSFORM
A project working to improve healthcare outcomes in the IDD community through centering the voices of adults with IDD.
IDD in the News
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For People With Disabilities, Technology Needs to Do More
In “Against Technoableism,” Ashley Shew argues that it’s not the individuals who need “fixing,” it’s their environment. -
Untapped abilities: People with intellectual and developmental disabilities must overcome barriers to enter the workforce
Varnet defies stereotypes related to her disability through her independence, responsibility, and engagement with coworkers.
Quarterly IDD Brunches
Creation of this website is part of a project that was launched with funds awarded by Stanford’s Office of Community Engagement