Researchers in the field of intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) believe there are at least 180,000 older adults with I/DD in the US. Of these people, 11,000 will be affected by dementia. Most people with I/DD in general are as likely as older adults without disabilities to have dementia. However, people with Down syndrome are more likely to have dementia in their life, with 30-40% of people with Down syndrome having dementia by age 50. The average age of the ‘onset’ – that is, when we first notice changes – in adults with Down is age 52. This percentage increases as people age.
People with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) may experience the challenges of dementia in different ways than people without disabilities and older adults. All changes for a person with I/DD should be considered in relation to the abilities they had previously – their baseline. Family, friends, and trusted staff who see a person daily are often the experts in recognizing and noticing these changes.
See The Arc Wisconsin Dementia Resource Directory.
Read the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia for people with I/DD, including Down syndrome.
Read the 10 Warning Signs Participant Guide, developed by the Alzheimer’s Association.
Take Our Survey: Deadline June 28
Are you or is a family member of someone with Down syndrome? Thinking about the health risk for dementia for your loved one can be scary. We want to help people with Down syndrome and their families have important conversations on this topic. Take this short survey to help us create the right resources for you and your loved one. Be entered to win a $25 Amazon gift card. Survey sponsored by The Arc Wisconsin, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Upside Down.
Trainings:
JUNE 4: Tell Us What You Think about Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome (Download and share our flyer.)
The Wisconsin Campaign for Alzheimer’s Awareness is hosting a Focus Group Discussion with Self-Advocates and Families
- RSVP at this link: https://bit.ly/2DxqjYO
- Focus Groups sponsored by The Arc Wisconsin, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Upside Down and the Alzheimer’s Association.
JUNE 5: The Wisconsin Campaign for Alzheimer’s Awareness presents a training for Professionals (Download and share our flyer.)
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s for People with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities
Presented by experts from The Arc Wisconsin and the Alzheimer’s Association Southeastern Wisconsin. Hosted by My Choice Family Care.
RSVP to save your spot: https://forms.gle/56QcqDtNz581zoBB9
Training will also be made available through a GoTo meeting (remote) option.
