Join Dr. Craig Escude on a compelling episode of IDD Health Matters, where he engages in an enlightening conversation with Cathy Ficker Terrill, a seasoned expert with 48 years of experience in the field of supports and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This episode delves into Cathy's extensive career, highlighting her roles from a direct support professional to an influential figure in promoting inclusion, quality, and employment within the IDD community. Cathy shares transformative stories and insights from her journey, including her pivotal role as a court monitor in a landmark case that led to the eradication of subminimum wage employment for people with IDD in a particular state. She discusses the shift from sheltered workshops to community-based employment, emphasizing the importance of job coaches and the positive impact of employment on individuals with IDD. The conversation also covers the evolution of person-centered planning, the significance of listening to and empowering individuals with IDD to make their own decisions, and the role of technology in modernizing supports and services. Cathy highlights the critical need for better communication between healthcare providers, supporters, and individuals with IDD, advocating for supported decision-making and the use of technology to enhance the lives of those with IDD. Dr. Escude and Cathy Ficker Terrill explore the challenges and successes in the quest for health equity and inclusion for people with IDD, offering valuable advice for professionals, families, and individuals alike. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding and advancing the field of IDD health and wellness.

Welcome to the "Friends for Life Podcast," hosted by Tony and Paul. In this enlightening episode, we delve deep into the importance of mindfulness and how it impacts the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as the professionals and caregivers who support them. Our special guest, Jenn McCullough, shares her inspiring journey from a special ed teacher to a mindfulness and yoga instructor, emphasizing the transformative power of mindfulness in both personal and professional settings. Jenn's story begins in the 1900s when she discovered the profound effects of yoga and mindfulness on her stress levels while working with students facing learning and behavioral challenges. This experience ignited her passion for incorporating mindfulness into education, leading her to explore deeper into meditation and the broader aspects of yoga. Throughout the episode, Jenn guides us through a practical mindfulness session, offering listeners an opportunity to experience the calming effects of focused breathing and body awareness. Her approach demystifies mindfulness, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. The conversation also touches on the similarities between Eastern and Western philosophies regarding mindfulness, highlighting its universal relevance and applicability. Jenn emphasizes that mindfulness is not about perfection but about continuous practice and self-awareness. Listeners will also discover practical tips for integrating mindfulness into their daily routines, whether at work, in the classroom, or in personal relationships. Jenn's insights provide valuable strategies for managing emotions, reducing stress, and fostering a more compassionate and understanding environment for all. For anyone seeking to enhance their well-being or better support those with developmental disabilities, this episode of the "Friends for Life Podcast" is a must-listen. Jenn McCullough's expertise and warm, engaging teaching style will leave you inspired to explore mindfulness more deeply in your own life. To learn more about Jenn's work and access mindfulness resources, visit integration.yoga or contact her at [email protected]. Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, Jenn's guidance and the insights shared in this episode are invaluable resources on your journey to a more mindful life.

The podcast "IDD Health Matters" hosted by Dr. Craig Escude features an episode with Dr. Beau Ances, an adult neurologist specializing in adults with Down syndrome, particularly focusing on the early detection of Alzheimer's disease in this population. Dr. Ances explains that individuals with Down syndrome are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease at a younger age due to having three copies of chromosome 21, which leads to an overproduction of amyloid precursor protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's. Key points discussed in the episode include: Early Signs of Alzheimer's in Down Syndrome: Dr. Ances highlights early signs such as social withdrawal, forgetfulness, changes in sleep patterns, increased falls, and the onset of seizures as indicators of Alzheimer's in individuals with Down syndrome. He notes that seizures, which may occur early in life and then reappear as cognitive decline sets in, are a significant sign of the disease's progression. Challenges in Diagnosis: The conversation also covers the difficulty in diagnosing Alzheimer's in individuals with Down syndrome due to pre-existing communication challenges and varying baseline cognitive abilities. Dr. Ances emphasizes the importance of observing changes from an individual's baseline behavior and abilities as a key diagnostic tool. Caregiver Observations: The role of caregivers in monitoring and reporting changes in behavior, skills, and abilities is crucial for early detection and diagnosis. Dr. Ances shares an example of how a patient's progression of Alzheimer's was observed through changes in her ability to color over the years, illustrating the disease's impact on her cognitive and motor skills. Importance of Baseline Assessments: Establishing a baseline of cognitive and functional abilities in individuals with Down syndrome is vital for early detection of Alzheimer's. Dr. Ances advises getting baseline assessments in the 20s or 30s to track any decline or changes over time. Advancements in Alzheimer's Diagnosis: The episode touches on new diagnostic methods for Alzheimer's, including PET imaging and spinal taps, which can indicate the presence of Alzheimer's pathology before symptoms appear. These advancements offer hope for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, not only in the general population but also specifically in individuals with Down syndrome. Dr. Ances's insights provide valuable information on the intersection of Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the unique challenges and considerations in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's in this population. The discussion underscores the importance of early detection, caregiver involvement, and the need for tailored diagnostic approaches to improve outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome facing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

In this enlightening episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, hosts Tony and Paul welcome Bethany and Becky from the Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (OADSP) to discuss the transformative work they're doing in the field of developmental disabilities. Recorded at the OADSP conference, this conversation sheds light on the innovative approaches and programs OADSP is implementing to support direct support professionals (DSPs) and frontline supervisors, aiming to spark positive change and ensure individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their goals. Bethany and Becky dive into the latest happenings at OADSP, including their efforts in leadership development and the impactful DSPU program. This unique high school program is designed to equip seniors with the skills and credentials needed to embark on a career as a DSP, offering a blend of education, internships, and competency-based achievements. They emphasize the program's role in addressing workforce crises, fostering purpose-driven work, and laying a solid foundation for various career paths. The episode also explores the challenges of maintaining a stable DSP workforce, the importance of advocacy, and the personal growth opportunities available through OADSP's leadership programs. With a mix of personal anecdotes, program insights, and a shared passion for making a difference, Bethany and Becky highlight the critical role of DSPs in creating a better world for individuals with developmental disabilities. Whether you're a seasoned professional in the field, considering a career as a DSP, or simply interested in learning more about the impactful work being done to support some of the most vulnerable members of our community, this episode offers valuable perspectives and inspiring stories of change and empowerment.

In this insightful episode of "Disability, Support, and Parenting," host Sarah Davies engages in a deep and meaningful conversation with guest Marie Wilbanks. Together, they explore the complexities and nuances of parenting in the context of disability, offering a fresh perspective that goes beyond mere survival to thriving in challenging circumstances. Highlights: Emotional Honesty: Sarah and Marie discuss the importance of acknowledging and embracing one's emotions, especially in the face of life's challenges. They emphasize the need for parents, particularly those dealing with disabilities, to give themselves permission to feel and process their emotions without guilt. Personal Growth and Therapy: The conversation delves into the transformative power of therapy, with both Sarah and Marie sharing personal insights and experiences. They highlight how therapy can aid in understanding and navigating the unique challenges of parenting and supporting a child with disabilities. Challenging Stereotypes: Marie passionately addresses the common misconceptions and narratives surrounding disability. She advocates for a more empowering and realistic portrayal of individuals with disabilities, moving away from pity-based narratives to ones that highlight capability and potential. The Concept of Thriving: The episode focuses on redefining success and thriving for individuals with disabilities. Sarah and Marie discuss the importance of creating opportunities and environments where children with disabilities can thrive according to their own standards and preferences. Parenting Strategies: Practical parenting strategies are discussed, including setting boundaries, managing energy, and ensuring that children have access to opportunities while respecting their choices and individuality. Conclusion: This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the joys and challenges of parenting in the context of disability. Sarah and Marie's conversation is not only enlightening but also filled with moments of humor and relatability, making it a truly engaging and informative experience.