Common Conditions in Seniors with Down Syndrome

People with Down syndrome are living longer, healthier lives these days. And that’s good news. However, as they age, they also encounter age-related medical conditions. In fact, having Down syndrome can put them at higher risk for certain conditions.

Caregiver in Falls Church VA: Seniors with Down Syndrome

Below are some conditions that are common in older adults with Down syndrome.

-Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

Older adults with Down syndrome are at a much higher risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease or other kinds of dementia. In fact, they typically develop dementia at a younger age than those without Down syndrome. Studies show that by the age of 40, nearly all people with Downs have the abnormal protein clusters associated with dementia in their brains.

-Vision Loss

People with Down syndrome often develop cataracts at a younger age. Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens, which causes blurry vision and vision loss. Another eye condition common with Downs is keratoconus. This condition causes the cornea to become cone shaped. As a result, vision can be distorted.

-Thyroid Problems

If your loved one with Down syndrome develops thyroid problems, they may seem more tired and irritable than usual. They may also be more confused and experience weight changes.

-Sleep Apnea

People with sleep apnea don’t sleep well at night. They may still feel sleepy the next day and nap more than they should. If you notice that they snore loudly, temporarily stop breathing while sleeping, or make gasping noises, it is possible your loved one has sleep apnea. Because the condition also has a negative impact on health, it’s important to have them evaluated and treated.

-Osteoarthritis

The joints of people with Down syndrome are often hyperflexible, which puts more stress on joints over the years. This puts them at greater risk for osteoarthritis. Being overweight makes the risk even worse. The pain of osteoarthritis can make them move less and not want to participate in their usual activities. They may also show they are in pain by being irritable or acting out.

-Osteoporosis

Those with Down syndrome should be screened for osteoporosis, which causes bones to become thin and brittle. They are especially at risk if there is a family history of osteoporosis, they have low body mass, or if they are not physically active.

Elder care can assist seniors with Down syndrome to manage health conditions. Elder care providers can drive them to medical appointments and take them to the pharmacy to fill prescriptions. Elder care providers can also remind them to take medications.

Are you or a loved-one considering hiring Caregiver in Falls Church, VA?  Please call the caring staff at Medical Professionals On Call today. Contact: 703-273-8818

Sources
Ndss.org
Alz.org

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Michelle DeFilippis

I graduated with a BS degree and had been selling medical equipment to hospitals, clinics and technicians. More recently, a family member was diagnosed with dementia and we, as a family, realized we were not prepared t care for her. We were thrown into that whirlpool of hospital stays, 24/7 live-in care, skilled care, caring for mom ourselves and finally, now daily home care. This was such a stressful time that I started thinking there had to be other people, other families as overwhelmed and unprepared as we were.

Medical Professionals On Call has such a caring, professional staff who are available to step in with whatever level of care necessary for loved ones and to relieve you of that stress.

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