What is one health concern that may be associated with older clients who have Down syndrome?

Individuals with Down syndrome have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease as they age. This is primarily due to the genetic factors associated with Down syndrome, particularly the presence of an additional copy of chromosome 21, which carries the gene that produces amyloid precursor protein. This can lead to the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The prevalence of Alzheimer’s among older adults with Down syndrome is significantly higher compared to the general population, making it a notable health concern for this group.

While conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease may also occur in older clients with Down syndrome, the specific association between Down syndrome and Alzheimer's provides a more direct and significant health concern as individuals age. This understanding is important for caregivers, as it informs monitoring and intervention strategies that can be implemented to support cognitive health in older adults with Down syndrome.