| Abstract: As neurodiverse children age, they are at risk for a number of diseases. Dementia is reported as the most feared disease by individuals over 65, according to the National Institute of Health. For younger individuals it is the second most feared condition after cancer. This fear is not unfounded since individuals diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are at risk for Major Neurocognitive Disorder, commonly called dementia. Adults with Down syndrome, a subset of IDD, are even more at risk (Bram et al., 2019). This is especially the case for early onset Alzheimer’s disease (Janicki & Dalton, 2000). This paper presentation will discuss how we as behavior analysts can adapt our approaches to best work with individuals who have, or are at risk for, this dual diagnosis. Information on how to adapt behavior support plans, communicate with caregivers, and work with staff across disciplines will all be addressed. Previous client cases will also be discussed to demonstrate how strategies can be applied. Behavior analysts should leave this presentation with a tool kit of behavior analytic strategies that can be used to meet the behavioral needs of clients who have, or are at risk of receiving, a dementia diagnosis. |