BASELINE System and SPECTRUM System
What if one of the biggest reasons dementia is recognised late in people with learning disabilities or autism is because we are often looking for the wrong signs?
This matters because people with learning disabilities and/or autism - particularly people with Down syndrome - are at increased risk of developing dementia earlier than the general population, and early presentation often differs from what many people expect. Early changes may emerge through behaviour, communication and everyday functioning rather than obvious forgetfulness.
When these signs are missed or misinterpreted, recognition can be delayed. Delayed recognition often means delayed assessment, delayed intervention and missed opportunities for support.
The Framework
The BASELINE and SPECTRUM frameworks are designed as a prompt for staff and family caring for someone with LD/IDD and/or autism to recognise early signs of dementia
The Checklists
Diagnostic overshadowing is a big problem when it comes to deciding whether someone with LD/IDD and/or autism has dementia or not. The Carer & Clinician Checklists both support carers and clinicians to avoid the trap of diagnostic overshadowing
The Flowchart
A simple and easy-to-use decision tools to support carers decide on what the next steps are when they notice a change in someone they care for