Healthy ageing in people with Down syndrome and dementia: The need to foster education and support programs for individuals, families and organizations

Most individuals with Down syndrome (DS) reach an advanced age which gives rise to specific seniorcitizen needs. These must be considered and addressed, through anticipation and prevention. Difficulties are already emerging in services responsible for this population, as well as for the individuals concerned and their relatives. The inadequacy and unsuitability of policy planning and lack of adequate services are made apparent whenever a person with DS begins to develop cognitive deterioration or dementia.The World Health Organization (WHO) has drawn up, in conjunction with the International Association for the Scientific Study of Intellectual Disabilities (IASSID) and Inclusion International, a report on the social and health care needs of aging persons with intellectual disabilities, including those with DS. This working document highlights as a priority the need for each country in the European Union to implement “Projects for Healthy Aging” that are naturally conducive to social inclusion while improving support and training for both formal and informal caregivers. The present article provides a rough outline for potential future programs targeting individuals with DS and cognitive deterioration or dementia.