Down’s Syndrome and the Increased Likelihood of the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted by Lily Hopkins

15th August 2019

By Jasmine Hine

Alzheimer’s is a neurological disease that is typically associated with the older generation: but did you know those who suffer from learning difficulties could be more at risk?

What is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that causes Dementia and is primarily associated with a decline of brain functioning. Typical symptoms include; memory loss, thinking speed and accuracy, judgement and understanding. However, lesser known symptoms also include mood changes such as:

loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
lack of empathy displayed towards others
difficulties in social situations
trouble understanding or communicating their emotions
increased anger and irritation
feelings of anxiety or low mood or depression

Due to the above, it is important when diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or Dementia, to be able to effectively cope and manage with these mood and feeling changes, particularly as the disease is progressive. It has been suggested that it is beneficial to focus on the things they can still do and enjoy, to maintain social interaction, to maintain a healthy lifestyle (i.e., eat well, exercise, regular/enough sleep) and to develop a consistent routine.

Who does it affect?

Although predominantly impacting the older generation (65 years and above) with very few (5% of the Alzheimer population) being affected by early-onset dementia (65 years and below), it is more prevalent for those who suffer with learning difficulties especially Down’s syndrome. Down’s syndrome is a genetic condition that impacts an individual’s development and is one of the leading causes of learning difficulties.

As noted by Dr Laura Phillips, science news, 21/03/19:

“Sadly, everyone with Down’s syndrome will have developed the characteristic plaques and tangles of Alzheimer’s in their brain by the age of 30, and around half will be diagnosed with dementia by the time they reach 50”

What connects Down’s syndrome and Alzheimer’s?

Down’s syndrome occurs when an individual has an additional chromosome 21 due to cell division error.
Chromosome 21 carries the gene that produces the protein APP that attributes to changes in the brain / the ageing process caused by Alzheimer’s.
Therefore, an additional chromosome 21 = additional production in APP = increased likelihood for changes to the brain.

An acknowledgement and awareness of the link between Down’s syndrome and Alzheimer’s and its associated symptoms is beneficial, but it is also important to remember that it is not inevitable.

Coping with Alzheimer’s and Down’s syndrome

Although the symptoms of dementia are very similar, individuals with Down’s syndrome are likely to face additional challenges including:

Less likely to receive an early diagnosis due to similarities between other mental and physical health issues exhibited.
Inability to always fully comprehend the diagnosis.
Greater risk of developing dementia at a younger age.
More likely to develop dementia at a much faster progression
Needing to access specialist services/support that can address the multifaceted issues.

There are several options for additional care for those suffering with both Down’s syndrome and Alzheimer’s as depicted below. However, it is preferable during the initial stages that the individual is in the comfort of a familiar place of residence with familiar social company in order for this comfort to remain in their long-term memory.

Who to contact for further information or assistance if required: