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).
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.
21,452 thoughts on “Caring for Individuals with IDD”
Discover Jannatbook 247 for Ultimate Entertainment
Jannatbook 247 offers a premium online experience with its sleek interface, diverse options, and outstanding features. Designed for ease of use and maximum enjoyment, it ensures every visitor has a rewarding and secure experience. Whether you’re looking for engaging activities or interactive fun, Jannatbook 247 delivers unmatched quality and excitement. It’s the trusted destination for anyone seeking reliable and top-notch entertainment.
Visit https://jannatbook-247.com/ today and explore all it has to offer!
Jannat Book login
Thank you for the detailed and accurate resources available here. ลิงค์ เข้า หวย ลาว
ลิงค์ เข้า หวย ลาว
احصل على دواليب ملفات مكتبية عملية من رؤية المكاتب. خصم 10% ، تركيب مجاني وشحن مجاني لسكان الرياض. حافظ على ترتيب مكتبك الآن!
دواليب مكاتب
متجر رؤيه المكاتب للأثاث المكتبي
Thanks for posting this info. I just want to let you know that I just check out your site and I find it very interesting and informative. I can’t wait to read lots of your posts.
Phantom wallet
Game terbaru 2025 ini keren banget! Grafisnya memukau dan gameplay-nya sangat seru! anda dapat memainkan di link berikut ini royal88
Situs Royal88
Bener-bener game yang wajib coba tahun ini, pengalaman bermain yang luar biasa! anda dapat memainkan di link berikut ini royal88
R88
Gameplay yang fresh dan inovatif! Pasti jadi favorit banyak orang di tahun 2025. Anda mau tau lebih lanjut bisa mengklik tautan ini sekarang royal88
ROYAL88
Excellent blog here! Also your site a lot up fast! What web host are you the usage of? Can I get your affiliate link in your host? I wish my site loaded up as quickly as yours lol Australian travel guide
Alexanderrs12
This one is good. keep up the good work!.. TD88
Angelo L. Luiz
This post on caring for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is both compassionate and informative. I appreciate how it emphasizes the importance of tailored care and understanding each person’s unique needs. The focus on empathy and inclusion is crucial for improving quality of life for those with IDD. Your insights highlight the importance of advocating for better support systems. Thank you for sharing such an important and thoughtful post!
henrico traffic lawyer
henrico traffic lawyer
Tại U888 https://u888s.vip/ , chúng tôi am hiểu rằng sự an toàn và bảo mật của người chơi là ưu tiên hàng đầu. Đó là lý do tại sao chúng tôi đã xây dựng một hạ tầng cơ sở bảo mật hiện đại, nhằm đảm bảo rằng thông tin cá nhân và giao dịch của bạn luôn được bảo vệ một cách tuyệt đối. Khi tham gia vào U888, bạn hoàn toàn có thể yên tâm để tập trung vào việc tận hưởng những trải nghiệm giải trí tuyệt vời.
U888
Penuh kejutan dan tantangan baru! Ini game yang pasti bikin kita nggak bisa berhenti main. Anda bisa mengunjugi website kami di link berikut ini https://jazzkitchenstudio.com/
OMO77
Game 2025 ini benar-benar melampaui ekspektasi! Penuh inovasi dan kualitas. Anda dapat melihat langsung koleksi permainan mobile di situs royal88
ROYAL88
lulu mall bengaluru is a premier shopping destination that offers an unparalleled retail experience. Spanning 7 lakh square feet, the mall features leading brands, 11 cinema screens, a 1000-seater food court with over 30 outlets, and a variety of entertainment options. Located in Rajaji Nagar, Lulu Mall Bengaluru promises a memorable shopping, dining, and leisure experience for all visitors.
anonymous
Kubet88 là nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến hàng đầu, cung cấp đa dạng các trò chơi thể thao, game bài, và các hoạt động cá cược hấp dẫn. Với giao diện dễ sử dụng, dịch vụ khách hàng chuyên nghiệp và các lựa chọn thanh toán linh hoạt, Kubet88 mang đến trải nghiệm chơi game an toàn và thú vị cho người dùng.
Kubet88