Professor Karen Watchman highlights the unique challenges of dementia in individuals with learning disabilities, focusing on differences in cognitive ability progression, seizure onset (especially in Down's syndrome), and communication of pain.

She emphasises personalised support, relationship nurturing, and the role of caregivers.

The episode showcases resources like Jenny's Diary and Andrew's Cards, and introduces specialised online training for professionals, aiming to enhance the quality of life for this population.

Connect with Professor Karen Watchman on LinkedIn

This podcast is free to listen - but the care behind it isn’t.

Rowcroft Hospice is a registered charity, and much of our work is made possible thanks to the generosity of local supporters. We provide outstanding care to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across South Devon—through our inpatient and outpatient services, as well as vital care at home.

We’re also planning to expand our impact even further, with a pioneering 60-bed dementia and complex nursing care home at our site in Torquay, designed to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

If you’ve found value in this podcast and would like to support our work, please visit rowcrofthospice.org.uk/donate thank you.

This podcast series is recorded and produced by Steve Hindley at iNarrator