Advancing Science and Care Models for Lifespan Transitions in Neurodevelopmental Disorders*
Date: September 14, 2025
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Track: Plenary
Session Description
Understanding the science and care models for lifespan transitions in neurodevelopmental disorders is crucial as individuals with these conditions live longer and fuller lives. As they age, their needs change, requiring personalized interventions to ensure continuous care, improved quality of life, and greater independence. This topic is timely because transitioning from pediatric to adult healthcare poses significant challenges, including care gaps and a shortage of professionals trained in adult neurodevelopmental care. By enhancing our knowledge and refining care models, we can better prepare healthcare providers, educators, and families to support individuals throughout their lifespan, leading to more effective management and better overall outcomes.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this symposium, attendees should be able to:
- Explain the unique healthcare needs of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders as they transition from pediatric to adult stages.
- Design and implement personalized intervention plans that adapt to the evolving needs of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, ensuring continuous and effective care.
- Recognize common challenges and gaps in care during the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare and develop strategies to mitigate these issues. Recognize disease specific characteristics which may aide in finding the best fit transition rather than a one size fits all approach.
Speakers
Advances in the Science of Aging and Neurodevelopment in Down Syndrome
Description
This presentation will address neurodevelopment across the lifespan with a focus on neuroplasticity and aging in Fragile X and Down syndrome, emphasizing the implications for targeted interventions and emerging therapeutics for adult manifestations. It will highlight advances in the science of aging and neurodevelopment, including genetic and epigenetic factors influencing adulthood manifestations, as well as genetics, multimodal imaging, and novel biomarkers.
Speakers
Adult Life, Aging and Targeted Treatment in Fragile X Syndrome
Description
This presentation will describe transition to adulthood and adult life and aging in fragile X syndrome as an example neurodevelopmental disorder. Neuroplasticity and implications for targeted interventions in adolescence and adulthood as well as emerging therapeutics for adult manifestations of fragile X syndrome and implications for neurodevelopmental disorders will be discussed.
Speakers
Care Models for Transition and Beyond
Description
This presentation will provide a framework for successful transitions from pediatric to adult care, using Smith Magenis Syndrome, a multiple congenital anomaly condition associated with autism, circadian sleep disorder, dysmorphic features, anxiety and adult onset risk of cancer. I will discuss best practices based on case studies and research and highlight the role of multidisciplinary teams. The session will also demonstrate collaborations among researchers, patients and families.
Speakers
