Main description:

This publication aims, in plain English, to identify the main issues affecting individuals with Down Syndrome who develop Dementia. It is an awareness raising book aimed at stimulating discussions that will hopefully encourage the reader to find out more, using the websites provided. It takes the form of questions and answers. All the questions raised are actual questions raised many times in training courses run by the author.

Contents:

Introduction; 1.What is Down syndrome?; 2.Are there different types of Down syndrome?; 3.What are the characteristics of Down syndrome?; 4.Why are people with Down syndrome living longer?; 5.What are common health issues for the person with Down syndrome?; 6.Why are so many people with Down syndrome overweight?; 7.What is dementia?; 8.Is Alzheimer's the same as dementia, or are there different types?; 9.Is dementia on the increase?; 10. How common is dementia in Down syndrome?; 11.Why is the percentage much higher in people Down syndrome?; 12.What are the early warning signs of dementia in this group?; 13.What is the life expectancy of the person with dementia?; 14.How is dementia diagnosed?; 15.How does the Mental Capacity Act affect Down syndrome and dementia practice?; 16.How can we help in supplying information that aids diagnosis?; 17.How does dementia affect memory?; 18.Do people with Down syndrome age more quickly?; 19.Are some colours an issue for some individuals with dementia?; 20.Is lighting an issue for some individuals with dementia?; 21.Are there any communication tips during the early stage of dementia?; 22.Are there any communication tips as the dementia advances?; 23.What are the signs of dementia as it progresses?; 24.How important is a good diet for the individual with dementia?; 25.Is there any medication for dementia?; 26.Why do some individuals with dementia become aggressive?; 27.Does medication used to control aggression work?; 28.Are there other ways to control aggression other than medication?; 29.Why do some people with dementia walk purposefully; 30.How do we support someone who walks purposefully?; 31.Why do some people with dementia show inappropriate sexual behaviours?; 32.How should we support individuals who show inappropriate sexual behaviours?; 33.How can you support someone who asks cyclical/repetitive questions?; 34.Should you collude/agree with someone with dementia when you know they are wrong?; 35.What activities are useful for people with Down syndrome and dementia?; 36.Where should people with dementia live?; Appendix; Afterword;