The Aging Dilemma: Is Increasing Longevity Among People With Intellectual Disabilities Creating a New Population Challenge in the Asia-Pacific Region?

Aging With Intellectual Disabilities in Families: Navigating Ever-Changing Seas-A Theoretical Model

Life expectancy is increasing for people with intellectual disability, many of whom live with family. While there has been research about aging and future planning, there is limited evidence about the characteristics of the caregiving relationship. The aim of this study was to examine perspectives of caregiving for older people with intellectual disability and their family. A constructivist grounded theory approach was used, and 19 people with intellectual disability and 28 family members were interviewed. Caregiving was informed by transitions across the life course. Three interrelated concepts, Riding the Waves, Shifting Sands-Changing Tides, and Uncovering Horizons comprise the core components of the theoretical model-Navigating Ever-Changing Seas. This model informs complex, trans-generational relationships that impact decision-making for people with a long-term condition. Applications within health care indicate a need for systems to include individuals and their networks of care in policy, practice, research, and service delivery across the lifespan.

Perceptions of ageing and future aspirations by people with intellectual disability: a grounded theory study using photo-elicitation

Internationally, 1 per cent of the general population are living with an intellectual disability and life expectancy is increasing in line with global trends. The majority of people with an intellectual disability live with family. This represents a growing and largely ‘hidden’ population who have, or will have, additional needs as they and their family age. There is limited research about what is important for people with intellectual disability when thinking about getting older. This article reports on a study which explored the concept of ageing and future aspirations with 19 people living with an intellectual disability, aged 37–58 years of age (mean 48 years) and living with someone they identify as family. Using Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory approach and photo-elicitation, constant comparative analysis generated four themes: reciprocating relationships, emerging (in)dependence, configuring ageing and entertaining possibilities. As part of the interview process, photo-elicitation facilitated the expression of associations and perspectives about ageing and conceptualising the future for participants. The findings demonstrate the engagement of people with intellectual disabilities in research and provided unique insights into both their experiences and perspectives on ageing in the context of family. The need for greater flexibility in service planning and delivery are identified, alongside ensuring the meaningful inclusion of people with intellectual disability in decision-making about their own lives as they age.

Active aging for individuals with intellectual disability: meaningful community participation through employment, retirement, service, and volunteerism

As individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities become more engaged in community employment, it will be critical to consider how their employment experience changes as they age. Similar to other seniors, individuals will need to consider whether they want to maintain their employment, reduce their work commitment, or retire completely. If they do choose to retire, what activities will they choose to engage in, and what service or supports might be necessary? This article considers the issues faced by all aging workers in regard to retirement planning and active aging as well as specific strategies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to remain active and engaged. Recommendations for service options, policy consideration, and future research are also discussed.