Dementia & Down Syndrome

People with Down syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, at earlier ages than the rest of the aging population. Dementia can be difficult to diagnose in people with Down syndrome and requires caregivers to implement specific strategies to address behaviors related to dementia. Specialty-trained occupational therapists can help to decrease the occurrence and severity of distressing behaviors as well as help caregivers avoid burnout and overwhelm.

Prevalence
While people with Down syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, this is not inevitable. According to the National Down Syndrome Society, Alzheimer’s effects 30% of people with Down syndrome in their fifties and 50% in their sixties. It can be difficult for clinicians to diagnose Alzheimer’s in patients with Down syndrome due to the overlap and variability of symptoms in both conditions.

Signs to Look For
Early signs of Alzheimer’s can be hard to detect, so it is important to keep a log of a person’s baseline ability and begin tracking when these abilities begin to change. Initial signs can include increased confusion or forgetfulness that disrupts daily life, difficulty completing familiar tasks, difficulty with speaking, withdrawal from social activities, and changes in mood and personality.

Once Diagnosed
Following diagnosis, it is important to understand the general changes that may occur in the early, middle, and late stages of the disease. It is also important to have an honest conversation with the person with Down syndrome about their diagnosis and validate their emotions. Finally, it is vital to access resources online and in the community. Support groups, care services, and therapies can ensure the person with dementia and the caregivers continue safe, social, meaningful lives.

Family Speaker Night – Friday, September 13, 2024

We’ve invited a specialist to come and speak with families about Dementia & Down Syndrome.

Please join us! Register using the website calendar linked here.

About Erin
I am an occupational therapist in the Quad Cities, and I provide skilled OT services to older adults within their homes through my private practice, Rural Therapy Solutions PLLC. I specialize in older adults with neurological conditions, including dementia, and I am certified in Skills2Care which is an evidence-based program that addresses distressing behaviors associated with dementia and decreases caregiver burden. I have a deep love for the Down syndrome community. Pictured above is me and my cousin Emmy. Emmy is a powerhouse of love and light and sassiness. Watching Emmy and her parents and brothers move forward through life’s challenges with perseverance and flexibility and joy led me to the career I have today. I truly love my job and love the people and support networks I get to work with.

To connect please:
Call or text: (309) 865-5151
Email: erin@ruraltherapysolutions.com
Visit: www.ruraltherapysolutions.com