Key Learning Points:

1.

Delirium and dementia are both more

common in people with intellectual

disability than in the general population.

2.

People with Down Syndrome are at

particularly high risk of early dementia.

3.

Delirium may resemble or co-exist with

dementia, and it is important to look

for reversible causes of confusion before

diagnosing a dementing illness.

4.

Underlying functional deficits and high

levels of support may make it difficult to

recognise the early stages of delirium and

dementia.

5.

People with intellectual disability will benefit from early recognition of delirium

and appropriate treatment of any underlying medical disorder.

6.

Early diagnosis of dementia will assist in providing appropriate supports,

planning for the future, and monitoring other health problems.