This study was completed with the assistance of the Shalem Foundation

The increase in life expectancy of people with Down syndrome raises various challenges for them and their families. In the present study the concept of aging and old age and the effects and implications, in people with Down syndrome and their parents are discussed. The study examined how coping and understanding of the concept of aging in people with the condition themselves, and their parents aging and struggling with their child growing up in parallel. Interviews two hours in length were conducted for 19 women (average age 35) and 14 men (average age 39) with Down syndrome, of which 11 live in their parent’s homes and the rest live in communal housing and hostels. The issues raised during the interviews were mapped and eight key issues were discovered: relations with close family, social life, relationships, going out to independent living, quality of life, lifestyle, perception of aging itself and concern for the future.

Video Describing the study, January 2016, Editor : Shay Shlomi