The Down’s Syndrome Association is proud to support the inaugural Dementia Care Awards and is very happy to see that The Supporting People With a Learning Disability and Dementia Award has been included from the very start.
Dedicated, innovative, person-centred care is, of course, the goal for people with a learning disability of any age, but for those who also have dementia it can be truly transformative.
It is vital that we shine a light on and recognise best practice that is happening in our communities. And that we learn from and help others to learn from these successes.
This award also gives us the opportunity to celebrate the stories and experiences of those who have learning disabilities and dementia. Their stories help change the narrative and raise expectations. Their insights help us create better care, services and resources.
We all celebrate the fact that people with Down’s syndrome are now living much longer. Just as the rest of population experience changes as they grow older, so do adults who have Down’s syndrome. Alzheimer’s disease is not inevitable in people with Down’s syndrome, but we know the incidence of dementia is higher and age of onset is younger Today the prospect of new treatments for dementia are looking very promising.
However, in the here and now, it is the work of committed care and support professionals that continues to make a real difference to the lives of people who have a learning disability and Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
From the enquiries that our Helpline receives every day, we know that many families are concerned about the care that their loved ones will receive in their old age. We hope that these awards, highlighting excellence, innovation and dedication will reassure those families and inspire others to achieve better outcomes for those in their care.”
Carol Boys, Chief Executive, The Down’s Syndrome Association
