The connection between Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundIndividuals with Down syndrome (DS) face unique aging issues. Often the serious consequences of Alzheimer’s disease in individuals with DS are misunderstood and inadequately addressed due to a lack of understanding and sparse resources. This presentation explores research in medical advances, education, programming, housing, and transitioning.MethodThis presentation is a review of literature and research examining the relationship between Down syndrome (DS) and Alzheimer's disease.ResultOver the past 40 years the life expectancy of people with Down syndrome has more than doubled from 25 years in 1983 to 60 years in 2020 due to advances in cardiac surgery, medications, updated treatments, and the elimination of inhumane institutionalization. As a result, ever increasing numbers of people deal with the issues faced when people with DS experience premature age related changes. While memory loss is an early predictor of AD in the general population, according to the Alzheimer’s Association (2020) people with DS are more likely to experience other symptoms such as a reduction in being social, decreased enthusiasm for usual activities, a decline in focusing ability, sadness, fearfulness or anxiety, irritability, uncooperativeness or aggression, sleep disturbances, adult onset seizures, changes in coordination, and or increased excitability.ConclusionImplications for professionals include becoming knowledgeable of the signs of AD in clients with DS. Essential to the planning and implementation of effective medical interventions as well as programing is the development of medications, strategies and behavioral supports to ease transitions, the creation of resources for families and care givers, and the recognition of the growing demands of older adults with DS. Families are frequently ill prepared for the increased demands put upon them as a result of AD symptoms in their loved one with DS. Accessing state, federal, and privately funded services may be unknown, unavailable, and/or difficult. In addition, proper diagnosis and reliable information may not be readily available. These families are often in dire need of sound medical advice, financial, emotional, respite care, and physical assistance.