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Understanding Prader-Willi Syndrome

Prader-Willi syndrome is a rare genetic condition affecting many parts of the body.

It is caused by complex genetic changes involving a region of chromosome 15, and can affect:

  • Growth
  • Muscle tone
  • Metabolism
  • Learning
  • Behavior
  • Regulation of hunger

In infancy, a person with Prader-Willi syndrome may have low muscle tone and difficulty feeding. Beginning in childhood, many people develop an ongoing sense of hunger and may have difficulty feeling full after eating.

A person with Prader-Willi syndrome may experience differences in areas such as:

  • Muscle tone, strength, or physical development
  • Growth, metabolism, and hormone regulation
  • Learning, communication, or developmental milestones
  • Managing hunger, food-related thoughts, or eating behaviors
  • Emotional regulation, flexibility, or adapting to changes
  • Sleep, daily routines, and independent living skills

Prader-Willi syndrome affects each person differently, and support needs may change throughout the person's life. Many individuals thrive when they have predictable routines, structured environments, and carefully managed access to food. Because hyperphagia is driven by the condition rather than willpower, effective supports focus on prevention, consistency, and understanding rather than punishment or restriction alone.

Our specialty is supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have Prader-Willi syndrome. We partner with medical providers, dietitians, behavioral health professionals, families, and support teams to develop individualized, person-centered plans that promote health, safety, nutrition, independence, and quality of life. Supports are designed to respect each person's dignity, build on their strengths, honor their choices whenever safely possible, and help them achieve meaningful personal goals while minimizing health risks associated with the condition.

How Redwood Supports the People We Serve

At Redwood, every journey begins with the individual, not a diagnosis or label. Through our person-centered approach, we work closely with individuals, families, caregivers, and support teams to understand each person's unique strengths, goals, preferences, and needs. Together, we create personalized support plans that promote independence, meaningful relationships, community connection, and overall wellbeing.

Our services may include residential and home-based supports, day and community programs, employment and vocational services, community integration, behavioral services, crisis support, and care coordination. Delivered by compassionate, highly trained teams, these services are designed to help individuals live fulfilling, self-directed lives while remaining connected to the people and communities that matter most.

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Our Core Services

Every individual experiences life differently, and support needs often extend beyond a single diagnosis or condition.

The services below are designed to help individuals build skills, increase independence, strengthen community connections, and achieve personal goals throughout every stage of life.

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Residential & Home Support

Safe, supportive living environments that feel like home.

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Day & Community Programs

Opportunities to connect, learn, and engage in everyday life.

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Vocational & Employment Services

Pathways to meaningful work and greater independence.

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Clinical & Specialized Support

Thoughtful, individualized support for unique needs.

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Crisis & Behavioral Support

Responsive, compassionate support during challenging moments, focused on stability, understanding, and positive outcomes.

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Family Support

Resources, guidance, and partnership for families navigating care, decisions, and everyday support.

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Education & Resources

Tools, information, and ongoing learning opportunities to empower individuals, families, and partners.

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And More

Every journey is different. Together, we can find the supports that fit your needs and help you move toward greater independence, connection, and quality of life.

Find Support Near You

Redwood provides a variety of person-centered services across Arizona, California, Idaho, Minnesota, Nevada, and Washington. Available programs may vary by location, funding source, and individual needs.

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Getting Started with Redwood

Finding the right support starts with a conversation.

Whether you're exploring services for yourself, a family member, or someone you support professionally, our team is here to help.

We'll take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and help you navigate available programs, resources, and funding options. Together, we can identify the services and supports that best fit your needs and build a path forward centered around what matters most to you.