Health and ageing well
Ageing is an issue that affects everyone but for people with Down syndrome it is something that is a relatively new challenge as people with Down syndrome are living longer and healthier lives than they have in the past.
The average life expectancy of a person with Down syndrome in Australia is 60 years of age. This is a dramatic increase from 25 years in 1983.
As people age, most people experience more health concerns and access to regular health care becomes even more important. For people with an intellectual disability, accessing appropriate health care can be a challenge.
People with Down syndrome are also more likely to experience age-related changes in health earlier in life.
Annual health check
People with an intellectual disability can get an annual health assessment, which is funded by Medicare. Regular health checks as people get older are really important and can help to identify unexpected changes in health or cognition. The health assessment can make sure the person is getting the care they need.
Doctors are now being supported to use the Comprehensive Health Assessment Program (CHAP) to complete the health assessment in a standardised way. Inclusion Australia (IA) has a campaign to encourage more people with an intellectual disability to get their regular health check, called ‘It’s Doctor Time’.
Health screening tool for people with Down syndrome
This tool provides information about health screenings for adults with Down syndrome.
Yearly health checks
This Easy Read fact sheet by the Australian Government tells you about yearly health checks.
It’s Doctor Time! Conversation Cards
It’s Doctor Time! Conversation Cards. Inclusion Australia.
What happens at a yearly health check
Video by Speak Out Australia
Cancer Screening
Cancer screening tests are important for your health. Find out more with these easy to read guides.
Down Syndrome Good Health App
This health app is for adults with Down syndrome to keep a diary of daily meals, water, exercise and activities.
My Health Appointment Form
An Easy Read form by CID for people with intellectual disability and their supporters to prepare for a health appointment.