DSA Ageing Project: Supporting Older People with Down Syndrome

People with Down syndrome are living longer and healthier lives than ever before. Back in 1950, the average life expectancy for someone with Down syndrome was just eight years. Today, that’s nearly 60, thanks to advances in healthcare and better access to services.

With longer lives come new challenges. Ageing brings its own set of health considerations, like earlier onset of age-related conditions and a higher likelihood of dementia. Family dynamics can also change as parents age or pass away. In these situations, siblings may take on more support roles, or people may need to rely more on formal services.

As the number of older people with Down syndrome increases, Down Syndrome Australia (DSA) is focused on meeting the growing needs of this group and their families. To understand those needs better, we’ve completed a gap analysis to see where more support, resources and advocacy are needed.

Key areas we’ve identified:

• Clear, targeted information: Families have asked for easy-to-understand resources, like fact sheets on specific topics.
• More peer support: People want to learn from others who have been through similar experiences.
• Support for siblings and family members: As family roles change, more resources are needed to help siblings and other relatives.
• Planning for the future: There’s a need for information and support around ageing and planning for changes in support needs.
• National workshops and webinars: Accessible sessions for people all over the country.
• Advocacy on key issues: Including the NDIS, healthcare, mental health support, and more.
• Building new partnerships: We’re working to connect with organisations in the ageing sector that haven’t always included people with intellectual disability.