Dementia signs are often missed in people with learning disabilities in the South West
Getting a diagnosis of dementia can take longer for people with learning disabilities.
People living with a learning disability are more likely to get dementia at a younger age, but getting a diagnosis of dementia can take longer, say Alzheimer’s Society.
Around one in five people with learning disabilities who are over the age of 65 will develop dementia. While those with Down’s syndrome have an even higher risk, with about two in three people over the age of 60 developing dementia, usually Alzheimer’s disease.
This World Down’s Syndrome Day Alzheimer’s Society is sharing useful tips to help recognise signs and symptoms.
Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer for Wellbeing at Alzheimer’s Society said: "One of the issues is a person with Down's Syndrome might have difficulties and those difficulties may well be the same as the symptoms of early dementia we'd expect in other people.
"A person with Down's Syndrome may already have problems carrying out daily tasks, there might be slight confusion or changes in mood, they might already have memory problems.
"So they might already be experiencing difficulties with things we would ordinarily associate with dementia symptoms."
The charity say a timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial to accessing treatment and support.
They are reminding people to visit a GP if you or your loved one are worried about experiencing dementia symptoms.