19 September, 2024
This year’s theme for Dementia Awareness Week (16-22 September) is “Act Now for a Dementia-Friendly Future.” We are shining a light on Young Onset Dementia and its impact on people with Down syndrome.
Dementia can happen to anyone. It affects:
- Memory
- Thinking skills
- Social skills
- Daily living activities
Dementia is more common in people over 65.
Young Onset Dementia affects those under 65.
People with Down syndrome are more likely to get dementia at a younger age.
Down Syndrome Australia (DSA) is working on a Joint Solutions Project for Young Onset Dementia.
We want to highlight the barriers people face and the services they need.
So far, people with Down syndrome and their families have talked about:
- Awareness and prevention (see below for more info)
- Diagnosis or misdiagnosis
- Disability support services and Aged Care services
- Health services, including those for dementia
- The impact on families, including aging parents and siblings
- The link between Down Syndrome Regression Disorder and dementia
If you want to learn more or share your experiences with dementia, contact Rachel at Rachel.Spencer@downsyndrome.org.au.
Awareness: Act Now!
Being aware of dementia and its signs can help with prevention and management. Here are some steps you can take:
- Learn about dementia and what to look out for.
- Make healthy lifestyle choices to prevent it.
- Monitor and note any changes in behaviour or memory.
Getting a diagnosis and support early is important.
Talk to your GP and ask for a referral to a specialty intellectual disability health team, a memory clinic or a specialist like a geriatrician or neurologist.
Health Assessments
Regular health care is important for people with Down syndrome.
The Comprehensive Health Assessment Process (CHAP), is for annual GP health assessments.
The CHAP can be used alongside DSA’s Down Syndrome Health Screening Tool.
These assessments can help look for signs of dementia and other health issues.
Act Now!
Book your annual health assessment today. You can find more information and tips at Annual Health Assessments – Inclusion Australia.
View more helpful information and resources on dementia in people with Down syndrome from Down Syndrome Australia.