Canadian Down Syndrome Society Launches “We Deserve Care” Campaign to Address Aging and Healthcare Gaps

As life expectancy rises, new national initiative aims to train healthcare professionals to better support adults with Down syndrome

TORONTO — The Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS) has launched a new national campaign, “We Deserve Care,” to spotlight the urgent need for improved healthcare education and support for aging adults with Down syndrome. The initiative seeks to fund the development of a nationally accredited training course for healthcare professionals, ensuring that older Canadians with Down syndrome receive specialized, informed care throughout their lives.

In 1950, only 1% of Canadians with Down syndrome lived past the age of 40. Today, more than 30% are over 40 and thriving, thanks to advances in medical care and inclusion. However, most healthcare systems and professional training programs still fail to address the unique aging-related needs of this population.

According to the 2025 Down Syndrome Community Survey, many healthcare professionals report feeling unprepared to meet the needs of aging individuals with Down syndrome—often leaving family caregivers to fill the educational gap and guide practitioners through basic care requirements.

“The ‘We Deserve Care’ campaign reflects a major shift in our community,” said Laura LaChance, Executive Director of the Canadian Down Syndrome Society. “People with Down syndrome are living longer than ever, but healthcare systems haven’t kept up. This campaign is both a celebration of longevity and a call to action to ensure that the next generation of adults with Down syndrome receives the care and respect they’ve earned.”

Building Awareness and Long-Term Solutions

The “We Deserve Care” campaign not only raises awareness but also funds the creation of a national healthcare training program that will educate doctors, nurses, and caregivers on the complexities of aging with Down syndrome.

The course aims to cover areas such as:

• Early detection of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia

• Nutrition, mobility, and mental health support

• Communication strategies for cognitive and sensory changes

• Respectful and inclusive care practices

Empowering the Next Chapter

As life expectancy continues to increase for individuals with Down syndrome, CDSS emphasizes that policy and training must evolve alongside these advances. The organization hopes the “We Deserve Care” campaign will spark a national conversation about accessibility, compassion, and inclusion in aging healthcare.

Canadians can learn more, get involved, or donate by visiting WeDeserveCare.ca.

About the Canadian Down Syndrome Society

The Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people with Down syndrome to live fulfilling, self-determined lives. Through advocacy, education, and public awareness initiatives, CDSS promotes inclusion and works to ensure individuals with Down syndrome can reach their full potential. Learn more at CDSS.ca.

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