Although adults with Down syndrome are healthy, they still need regular health care. Perhaps you have an adult child with Down syndrome, or a brother or sister with this condition. Your relative needs the same care as all adults. You should also help your relative get checked for special medical problems that are more common in people with Down syndrome. For example, your relative should be checked for thyroid disease, arthritis, and vision, hearing and cervical spine problems.
Down Syndrome in Adults
Down Syndrome in Adults: Staying Healthy
Are regular check-ups with a doctor necessary?
How can I help my relative with Down syndrome have a full life?
If you plan carefully, your relative can lead a more independent life. Common areas to plan for include the following:
- Housing options such as group homes, supervised independent living or family-owned independent housing. It's good to make plans for your relative to live independent of you.
- Work options such as sheltered workshops, supported employment and regular employment, with or without a job coach. Employment and social activities add increased meaning to life and may encourage responsible independence in your relative.
- Recreation options such as adult day care, the Special Olympics and other activities that involve exercise and hobbies or interests.
- Special estate planning, education beyond high school and self-help training.
My older relative with Down syndrome is having some new problems. Could it be Alzheimer's disease?
Many parents or guardians are concerned about Alzheimer's disease (a kind of dementia). It occurs at an earlier age in persons with Down syndrome, but usually not before the age of 40. However, mental health and medical problems can sometimes look like Alzheimer's disease. Don't just assume that the change in your relative is caused by dementia. There may be another reason for the change in behavior. Talk to his or her doctor about your concerns.
| Some behavior changes | Possible cause |
| Talks to self | Stress; some self talk is normal |
| Withdrawal | Depression, stress, medical problem |
| Aggression | Depression, stress, medical problem |
Other Organizations
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National Down Syndrome Congress
7000 Peachtree-Dunwoody Rd. NE, Bldg. 5, Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30328-1662
800-232-6372
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National Down Syndrome Society
666 Broadway
New York, NY 10012
800-221-4602
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Down Syndrome Newsgroup
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Down Syndrome Quarterly
Source
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff.
American Academy of Family Physicians
Reviewed/Updated: 10/05
Created: 04/02
Copyright © 2002-2008 American Academy of Family Physicians
|This article provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. To find out if this article applies to you and to get more information on this subject, talk to your family doctor.
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|This article provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. To find out if this article applies to you and to get more information on this subject, talk to your family doctor.
For private, noncommercial use only.
Home | Privacy Policy | Contact Us | About This Site | What's New |