Aging
Be ready to offer support, throughout their entire lifespan
People with Down syndrome are living longer lives than ever before thanks to advances in medical technologies, improved access to healthcare, and increases in societal acceptance. It’s now common for someone with Down syndrome to live into their 50s, 60s, and 70s, and we’re ready—thanks to support from Bader Philanthropies and many community partners—to help serve this aging population and their families. Preparing you for the unexpected challenges ahead, we offer support opportunities for loved ones and caregivers, a number of education opportunities, insightful resources, and more.
Get the support you need, start here
Aging caregiver support group
We’ve partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to host a monthly support group for people who provide care for aging individuals with Down syndrome. Each support group provides emotional support, shares experiences, and features an educational component. This support group focuses on Alzheimer’s and dementia due to the prevalence of those diseases in the Down syndrome community, and all caregivers for aging individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are welcome to join this program.
Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease Facebook group
Moderated by staff from our team, we host a Facebook group for families and caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s/Dementia. This is the perfect opportunity for people that are first starting on the journey caring for an aging person with intellectual and developmental disabilities or if they’ve been doing it for decades. Join and post your questions, comments, and concerns while connecting with a larger community that’s ready to support you.
Educational resources
Want to learn more about aging in people with Down syndrome? Curious about the relationship between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease, its common over-diagnosis, and ways that we could potentially improve cognition in older adults with Down syndrome? Perfect! We offer provider trainings hosted by trained DSAW staff, a speaker series featuring national leaders in the Down syndrome and aging field, and a library of educational webinars presented by professionals in the field of aging, disability, and dementia.
Top resources for aging caregivers
Upcoming events for aging caregivers
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I was at the down syndrome and Alzheimer’s thing tonight at bayvisw library with my mom, brother and sister. I wanted to tell you how valuable the experience was for us.
Cindy
Support near you
No matter where you live, there’s support available
Across Wisconsin, there are many chapters and support groups that are ready to connect with you to help you support aging individuals with disabilities.
