Lumind-Research Down Syndrome Foundation

LuMind RDS’s vision for the future is a world in which people with Down syndrome are fully included in academic and social environments and where they can live independently as adults, if they so choose. In recent years, private and public services, including early intervention, special education and job training, have greatly improved the lives of those who have DS. Nevertheless, cognitive challenges make it difficult for most to live independently during adulthood, and additionally most of those with DS experience the early onset of Alzheimer’s Disease.

LuMind RDS is funding research that applies the information, tools and techniques resulting from the genome project along with recent advances in brain research to the study of cognition in Down syndrome. Our goal is the development of treatments that will improve learning, memory, and speech, and therefore enhance the lives of those with Down syndrome and their families. The majority of individuals with Down syndrome fall into the mild to moderate range of cognitive impairment. For many of these individuals, a 10%-20% improvement in cognitive ability would provide them with the ability to live independently, hold a job and be fully integrated within their communities.