Down’s & Dementia Awareness (F2F)
This course introduces the link between Down’s syndrome and dementia, helping learners understand increased risks, recognise early signs, and support individuals with sensitivity and person-centred approaches.
Learning Outcomes
The Down’s & Dementia Awareness course provides learners with an understanding of Down’s syndrome and the increased likelihood of developing dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, among individuals with the condition. Participants will begin with an overview of Down’s syndrome, exploring its characteristics and how it may affect communication, learning, health, and daily living.
The course examines the established link between Down’s syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease, helping learners understand why individuals with Down’s syndrome are at a higher risk of developing dementia and how this may present earlier in life compared to the general population. Participants will gain awareness of how symptoms of dementia may differ or be more difficult to recognise due to pre-existing cognitive and communication differences.
Learners will explore the challenges involved in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer’s disease in people with Down’s syndrome, including how changes in behaviour, skills, or personality may be mistaken for other factors. The session highlights the importance of careful observation, early recognition, and collaborative working with families and professionals to support accurate assessment and ongoing care.
The course also focuses on how to provide effective, person-centred support for individuals with Down’s syndrome who develop Alzheimer’s disease. Participants will explore practical approaches that promote dignity, familiarity, and emotional wellbeing, while adapting communication and support strategies to meet changing needs. Emphasis is placed on maintaining quality of life, supporting independence where possible, and providing compassionate, informed care.
By the end of this course, participants will understand the link between Down’s syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease, recognise challenges in diagnosis and management, and apply person-centred approaches to support individuals with Down’s syndrome who develop dementia.
- Have an overview of Down’s Syndrome.
- Be aware of the link between Down’s Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease.
- Be aware of the difficulties in Diagnosis and management of Alzheimer’s Disease in people with Down’s Syndrome.
- Understand how to support a person with Down’s Syndrome, who develops Alzheimer’s Disease.
- £Free(LSCP Members)
- £16.50(Non-Members)
In order to attend any of these sessions a booking form needs to be completed (even for sessions ‘Free to Members’, as we need to account for room capacity and a fair distribution of free places among organisations).