Complex support needs profile of an adult cohort with intellectual disability transitioning from state-based service provision to NDIS-funded residential support. Issue 4 (1st October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wilson, Nathan J.; Riches, Vivienne C.; Riches, Tanya; Durvasula, Seeta; Rodrigues, Renell; Pinto, Sonali
• Is Part Of: Journal of intellectual & developmental disability. Volume 45:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 355
• Page End: 364
• Publication Date: 2020-10-01
• Subjects: Health -- behaviours of concern -- support needs -- nursing -- chronic illness -- polypharmacy; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; Developmental disabilities -- Periodicals; Mental retardation -- Periodicals; 362.1968
• DOI: 10.3109/13668250.2020.1717069
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1366-8250

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: People with intellectual disability and chronic and complex support needs often require unique models of care that are intensive and expensive. How these supports can be continued within a rapidly changing policy and funding context in Australia, has not been fully determined. Method: This descriptive study utilised a retrospective electronic case-file audit design. Demographic details, chronic health conditions, medications, behaviours of concern, and overall support needs profile were mapped for 41 participants. Results: The profile is one of an ageing cohort, with high levels of chronicity and polypharmacy that requires a specialised workforce to fully meet their support needs. Conclusion: As the people with ID in this cohort age, the training needs of the current and future workforce will need to adapt as different issues become more prominent. How the national disability health and policy settings can best accommodate these support needs remains unclear.