Abstract
In recent years, the average life expectancy of individuals with intellectual disabilities has rapidly increased. Hence, welfare services for individuals with disabilities are confronted with users’ changing needs owing to aging and the various problems caused by dementia. To provide appropriate support and measures, the actual status of dementia among individuals with intellectual disabilities must be clarified. Since 2017, Okayama University and Asahigawaso Medical Welfare Center have conducted a comprehensive study on dementia in the population. First, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of 493 individuals with intel- lectual disabilities using welfare facilities in Okayama Prefecture. The prevalence of dementia was investigated by three physicians using the diagnostic criteria of the DSM─5, ICD─10 and DC─LD. Second, we assessed the validity of the Japanese version of Dementia Screening Questionnaire for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilitie(s DSQIID), developed in the United Kingdom. Our report in the Journal of Intellectual Disability Research covered important symptoms that caregivers should pay special attention to when they suspect dementia in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Since 2019, we have expanded the scope of our study to include the entire country, and have surveyed over 1900 facility residents with intellectual disabilities.
