Specific aspects of ageing in Down's syndrome

Abstract

Life expectancy is increasing considerably in the population with Down's Syndrome (DS), thanks to advances in health care and living conditions. As a result, older people with SD require specialized care. This article aims to give an updated view of ageing and end of life in people with DS, with three sections: 1. Definition of geriatric concepts, 2. Specific medical problems of ageing in SD, 3. End of life in SD. Finally, a set of guidelines for the detection of specific problems in the care of older patients with SD is proposed.