The link between Down's syndrome and Alzheimer's disease: 2.

In this article, the second of two parts, the needs of family and professional carers of people with Down's syndrome and Alzheimer's disease are examined. Substantial numbers of people with Down's syndrome survive to the age of 50 and beyond and so work still needs to be done on finding solutions to the problems faced by this client group and its carers. As well as the difficulties faced by any family carer of a person with dementia, those caring for someone with Down's syndrome and Alzheimer's disease may also have to deal with additional worries and problems. Consideration is given to service provision and the implications for nursing. A case study will illustrate some of the points made.