Aging people with intellectual disability in Israel

Eli Carmeli, Joav Merrick

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

The proportion of adults with intellectual disability (ID) who are in need of support with various aspects of personal care is already significant at age 40 years. The aim of this study was to learn about the personal, social, and health characteristics of older people with ID in Israel and to examine their needs and the solutions provided. A cross-sectional and nationwide study collected data about people with ID aged 40 years and older. Formal and informal caregivers were interviewed about medical data and about their own characteristics and needs. The percentage of people with severe and profound ID was 29 % and among those living with their families 21 %, compared with 3 % in hostels and small group homes. Differences in age distribution were found in the various housing settings. A significant correlation was found between the level of intellectual disability and the activities of daily living. As age increased, contact and involvement with family members declined. The use of medical services increased with age in all out-of-home settings. It is possible to compare the differential needs of different age groups, which helps us understand the implications of aging for the populations in the various settings.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)263-268
Number of pages6
JournalInternational Journal on Disability and Human Development
Volume9
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2010
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
This study (4) was commissioned by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services and funded by the Ministry, the Shalem Foundation, JDC-ESHEL, and the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute.

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Intellectual disability
  • Residential care

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rehabilitation
  • Sensory Systems
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health
  • Advanced and Specialized Nursing
  • Speech and Hearing

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