Occupational Therapy-Related Assessments for Adults With Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review

Examining cognitive accessibility of the VIA Inventory of Strengths for adults with intellectual disability

BACKGROUND

We evaluated cognitive accessibility of the VIA Inventory of Strengths Youth short form with adults with intellectual disability for use in strengths-based practice.

METHODS

We conducted cognitive testing with adults with intellectual disability (n = 33; M age = 36.2; range: 20.4-64.2). Data were coded for the extent to which (1) items were interpreted correctly; (2) participants endorsed items as describing themselves. We calculated descriptive statistics to evaluate item interpretation and response scale use.

RESULTS

On average, 59% of participants interpreted items correctly, 20% misinterpreted items, 14% had mixed interpretations. Positive item endorsement was most associated with the response 'Very much like me' (77%); mixed endorsement was most associated with 'Somewhat like me' (39%); and negative endorsement of items was most associated with 'Not at all like me' (54%).

CONCLUSIONS

Revisions are necessary for several items to improve accessibility for adults with intellectual disability and should be made in collaboration with this population.

Technology for Adults with Intellectual Disability: Secondary Analysis of a Scoping Review

Background. Technologies are embedded in all daily life activities and are utilized by occupational therapy practitioners to facilitate participation; evidence on technology for adults with intellectual disability (ID) can support practice with the population. Purpose. Summarize the evidence on technology to support adults with ID. Method. Secondary analysis of a scoping review of articles published between 2002 and 2018. Articles in the original scoping review addressed participation, assessment, or interventions with adults with ID. Authors completed a secondary analysis of 159 articles to identify articles with information on technology. Findings. In total, 56 articles met the inclusion criteria. Technology categories were cognitive supports, mainstream technologies, supplemental communication, aids for daily living, seating and mobility, control interfaces, and preparatory technologies. Implications. This secondary analysis demonstrates the range of evidence identifying technology as a key support, the impacts of the proliferation of technologies, and the need for occupational therapy practitioners to advocate for accessible technologies.