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Active ageing among older adults with lifelong intellectual disabilities: the role of familial and nonfamilial social networks
- Authors:
- BUYS Laurie, AIRD Rosemary, MILLER Evonne
- Journal article citation:
- Families in Society, 93(1), January 2012, pp.55-64.
- Publisher:
- The Alliance for Children and Families
To date, there has been little research exploring the extent to which active ageing is facilitated by family and nonfamilial support persons of older adults with intellectual disabilities. This study investigated the role played by key unpaid carers of older adults with lifelong intellectual disabilities in facilitating “active ageing”. Disability service providers in Queensland and Victoria, Australia, were asked to identify service users who met the participation criteria (being over 50 and able to verbally communicate). Sixteen individuals were included in the study. Family and extended family members were found to play a crucial role in facilitating independent living and providing opportunities for recreational pursuits for those living in group homes. Members of religious organisations and group home staff provided the same types of opportunities where family support was absent. The findings highlighted the need for improvements in resource provision, staff training, and group home policy and building design.