Latham Centers News

As Nurse Appreciation Week draws to a close, the Adult Services Team (led by Director Gina Sheehan) extends its heartfelt thanks for all the hard work and dedication displayed by our wonderful RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and Medical Assistants!  A large selection of flowers and vases was delivered to the Willow Street office so that these…

People with Prader-Willi syndrome often have a great sense of humor. Humor is a great tool as long as sarcasm is avoided. Sarcasm can be mistaken for teasing and shouldn’t be used.

Caption: At Latham, we use tagless pinnies during Special Olympics practice to help students focus on the activity. Sensory Processing Disorder can impact success and can often be easily addressed. Itchy tags, bright or flickering lights, or background noises can frustrate and agitate those living with SPD. Check the environment to see what external stimulus…

Caption: To make a vocational task easier to comprehend, break the steps down for someone with PWS. Slow processing speed is common in Prader-Willi syndrome. Short and concise directions are important. Always remember that people with slow processing speed will usually only hear the last thing you say.

Most people with Prader-Willi syndrome lack the ability to vomit. If spoiled food, too much food, or an episode of gastroparesis occurs, vomiting may not be possible and may lead to a GI emergency. Pay close attention to bowel movements to ensure that there is not a slowing of the GI tract. And seek medical…

Image: (https://bronsisbestfrndz.wordpress.com/2017/10/19/the-only-hand-a-girl-can-hold-without-hesitation-is-her-brother/) Since March 2020, the Latham Centers Outreach team has created opportunities for individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome and their families. Now, more than two years later, it has been incredible to see the success and growth of these groups. Today we highlight the Siblings Group. The Siblings Group includes people of all ages who…

Fine motor skills can be impaired in the person with Prader-Willi syndrome. Practice skills that will improve fine motor skills like handwriting and using scissors.

Allow the person with Prader-Willi syndrome to have the opportunity to choose whenever possible. So much of their lives are regulated and planned for them. Giving choices can allow for a sense of self-direction and independence.

The vast majority of children with Prader-Willi syndrome also have learning difficulties. It is a misconception that they cannot learn past a certain level; the truth is they are often in an environment that is not conducive to learning. The teachers at Latham create a safe environment where students can reach their goals and see…