From the National Institute on Aging
The Connection between Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease
Many, but not all, people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s disease when they get older. Alzheimer’s is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out simple tasks.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning—thinking, remembering, and reasoning—and behavioral abilities to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities.
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The National Institute on Aging has just released a fact sheet on Alzheimer’s disease and Down syndrome. The fact sheet is for adults with Down syndrome, their family members, and caregivers discusses: the connection between Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Research and resources for more information.
