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Growing Older

Life expectancy has increased significantly and people with Down's syndrome can live well into middle age and beyond.

There is some evidence to suggest that the ageing process is slightly accelerated in people with Down's syndrome. It is recognised that most women with Down's syndrome experience the symptoms of the menopause earlier and are post menopausal by their middle forties.

People with Down's syndrome in their 50's follow the same ageing pattern as anyone else, with changes in hearing, vision and mobility. Volunteer worker

People with Down's syndrome continue to learn new skills and enjoy an active lifestyle as they get older.

There is a link between Down's syndrome and Alzheimer's type dementia which can affect up to 50% of people aged over 60. Research into this issue is ongoing and it is vital that people with Down's syndrome are included and benefit from any advancements in treatment and care.