Caring for Individuals with IDD

Caring for diverse patient populations presents a lot of new and unique challenges for patients, providers, and family members. This week, I’m going to focus on one patient population in particular: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

History of the Best Buddies Keith Haring Logo - Best Buddies ...Throughout college, I have volunteered with and have been a peer mentor for the Best Buddies chapter at Union College. Best Buddies is a non-profit organization that strives to support individuals with IDD by providing them with one-on-one friendships, employment opportunities, development of leadership and communication skills, and self-advocacy skills. Being a part of Best Buddies has been a very rewarding experience, and has also shown me some of the challenges that individuals with IDD face everyday.

Challenges

One of the challenges that individuals with IDD face is communication. Often times, they can have difficulty communicating effectively with others, which can prevent them from being able to express their thoughts and feelings to family members, friends, or even healthcare providers.

Integration into society and employment are also two major challenges (1). Many individuals do not have a post-secondary education and aren’t able to access resources that would allow them to obtain internships or other experiences. Additionally, the stigma that exists surrounding intellectual and developmental disabilities can lead to social isolation and negative perceptions of hiring individuals with IDD.

These challenges and more combine to leave individuals with IDD with increased mental health problems, little to no income, and lower levels of independence (1).

Role of Caregivers & Healthcare for Individuals with IDD

Many individuals with IDD live with their families and rely on them for financial and emotional support, as well as advocacy. However, there is not always enough support for families that are caring for individuals with IDD. Many families are expected to provide lifelong care, but this is not feasible in some situations and extra support is needed (2). In Albany, St. Margaret’s Center provides 24-hour care and support for children with disabilities. This includes pediatric care, group activities, and helping families navigate insurance and other services. This is a very helpful option for families of younger children with disabilities, and it would be great to see similar resources for adults with IDD that face some of the same challenges.

In healthcare settings, the challenges faced by individuals with IDD can lead to poorer health outcomes, even with advocacy by caregivers. Individuals with IDD face higher rates of co-morbidities and chronic conditions, as well as challenges in understanding their own healthcare issues and the services that are available to them. A lot of providers don’t receive enough training and don’t have experience in communicating with and caring for individuals with IDD (3).

Resources

Some additional resources for individuals with IDD, such as this Early Intervention Program in New York, are listed here.

While there are a lot of improvements to be made in supporting individuals with IDD and their caregivers, we can start by understanding the unique challenges this population faces and how these challenges create barriers to integration and care.

10,505 thoughts on “Caring for Individuals with IDD

  1. Dewapoker Situs Game Online Bersertifikasi Resmi Di Asia, Dewapoker Minimal Bermain Hanya Rp.10.000, Daftar kan akun DewaPoker Sekarang. Dewapoker Asia

    Reply

  2. Kini telah hadir Server Luar Negeri yang tersedia di situs BET2SLOT. Telah hadirnya Server Luar Negeri yang kini tersedia di BET2SLOT mempermudah para pemain untuk mendapatkan kemenengan dengan mudah hanya dengan bermain slot online.

    Reply

  3. Thank you for this awesome content. I have been looking for what to watch then I stumbled on this page. Thanks for sharing.Also Have a look at our website Throw Pillow Therapy.

    Reply

  4. 🍈 Direct website including leading baccarat, large website, safe, stable, never have financial problems. There is a complete selection to choose from.
    Sports, baccarat, slots, all famous casinos here in one place. that has the most popular players Login to member account.🧨 บาคาร่า

    Reply

  5. TIKUS778 adalah salah satu situs judi slot terpercaya dengan menyediakan beragam jenis link daftar slot gacor hari ini yang telah terbukti sangat mudah menang. TIKUS 778 juga dipercayai sebagai salah satu bandar judi slot online teranam di Indonesia situs slot

    Reply

  6. Strange Touches is not an electronics store, but rather an entity existing in the city of Riyadh since 2017 AD. Experts in selling car accessories
    We are distinguished by the quality of service and the best price
    https://lamsatgariba.com/

    Reply

  7. Strange Touches is not an electronics store, but rather an entity existing in the city of Riyadh since 2017 AD. Experts in selling car accessories
    We are distinguished by the quality of service and the best price
    https://lamsatgariba.com/

    Reply

  8. Awesome blog. I enjoyed reading your articles. This is truly a great read for me. I have bookmarked it and I am looking forward to reading new articles. Keep up the good work! noticias esports en español

    Reply

  9. You can buy New Tinder accounts from our website.Our New Tinder Accounts help increase your relationship on social media.buy tinder accounts100% Fresh And Verified.pvago

    Reply

  10. It is surely challenging to take care of people with disabilities. Probably, outsiders think it is an easy job but it is very tough whether you are a parent or caregiver. However, the addition of therapies like deep tissue massage Belfast and healing sessions could be helpful in this regard.,

    Reply

  11. Thank you for highlighting the importance of caring for individuals with IDD. It’s crucial to address the unique challenges they face and provide support and Combating understanding. Your work with Best Buddies demonstrates the impact of meaningful connections and empowerment in their lives. Keep up the great work.

    Reply

  12. Wonderful posting, Thanks a ton to get spreading The following awareness. Wonderfully authored posting, doubts all of blog owners available precisely the same a higher standard subject material just like you, online has got to be improved site. I highly recommend you stay the best!

    Anyone share business on OwnTweet social Network .

    Reply

  13. Wonderful posting, Thanks a ton to get spreading The following awareness. Wonderfully authored posting, doubts all of blog owners available precisely the same a higher standard subject material just like you, online has got to be improved site. I highly recommend you stay the best!

    Anyone share business on OwnTweet social Network .

    Reply

  14. These individuals, often operating through agencies or independently, offer companionship, intimacy, and entertainment services to clients seeking a unique experience.
    https://www.delhimazza.com/

    Reply

  15. MANLY Battery, A Premier LiFePO4 Battery Supplier, Manufacturer & OEM, Offers Cost-effective 6v-72v Energy Solutions For Residential & Industrial Storage. lithium battery

    Reply

  16. في موقع كاري ستور نهتم بتقديم أفضل التوابل وبهارات مشكلة لجعل طهيك تجربة استثنائية. نفتخر بتقديم تشكيلة واسعة من
    توابل و بهارات الامير
    https://curry.sa/

    Reply

  17. Wow, cool post. I’d like to write like this too – taking time and real hard work to make a great article… but I put things off too much and never seem to get started. Thanks though. alexistogel

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *