Much attention is given to children and young people with intellectual disabilities, but in essence, everyone has to face the aging process, whether you have your full faculties or not. However, it is a time, that presents unique challenges and considerations for people with intellectual disabilities at all levels.
Because intellectual disabilities encompass a wide range of cognitive impairments, and individuals with ID often require specialised care and support throughout their lives, there is growing awareness of the importance of addressing these factors in a way that will ensure a dignified and fulfilling old age.
Dealing with the age factor and its impact on people with intellectual disability
As people with intellectual disability grow older, they face a set of complex factors that can significantly impact their physical health, not to mention their emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life. By recognising and addressing both the challenges and the solutions, you can help to improve coping strategies as they journey into this last stage of life.
Physical health
One of the most prominent factors affecting aging individuals with intellectual disabilities is declining physical health. These individuals may experience age-related health issues, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and arthritis, at higher rates than the general population. The combination of cognitive impairments and physical health problems can lead to difficulties in communicating symptoms, seeking appropriate medical care, and adhering to complex treatment regimens. Consequently, regular health screenings, adaptive healthcare strategies, and caregiver support become crucial to maintaining wellbeing.
Cognitive decline
While intellectual disabilities are lifelong conditions, individuals with ID may experience cognitive decline as they age, leading to increased difficulties in memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. It is essential to recognise and address these changes early by implementing strategies to support and exercise cognitive functioning. This may include cognitive training programmes, simplified communication methods, and adapted environments to promote independence and autonomy.
Social isolation
Social isolation is a significant concern for aging individuals with intellectual disabilities. They may face barriers to social integration, including communication challenges and stigmatisation. As they age, the loss of friends and family members can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Encouraging social inclusion and providing opportunities for community engagement through focused programmes and services can help to combat social isolation and enhance their quality of life.
Housing and residential choices
Of prime consideration is where an individual who is aging is going to live. Many individuals with ID may have spent their lives in group homes or with family caregivers. As they age, these living arrangements may become less suitable due to changing needs and circumstances. Planning for appropriate housing which has assisted living facilities or supportive community-based programmes, is crucial to ensuring safety and well-being in old age.
Financial and legal planning
Financial and legal planning is essential for everyone, but for those facing old age with intellectual disabilities, it is crucially important they are assisted to keep their affairs in order, secure and accessible. Many rely on government assistance programmes to meet their basic needs. Nevertheless, important steps must be taken to establish legal guardianship, create trusts, and develop financial plans to safeguard their financial security and ensure continued access to essential services.
Caregiver burnout
The responsibility of caring for aging individuals with intellectual disabilities often falls on family members or professional caregivers. The demands on these caregivers can become overwhelming, leading to caregiver burnout. The constant need for assistance with daily activities, healthcare management, and emotional support, can take a toll on the mental and physical health of even the strongest person. Thus it is essential to recognise the signs of burnout and provide respite care and support services to ensure the wellbeing of both the individual with ID and their caregivers.
End-of-Life care
End-of-life care planning is a sensitive but necessary consideration for aging individuals with intellectual disabilities. It should involve discussions about preferences for medical care, palliative care, and decisions regarding life-sustaining treatments. These discussions should involve both the individual with ID and their caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals. Ensuring that end-of-life care plans are in place helps respect the individual’s autonomy and wishes, while providing comfort and dignity in their final stages of life.
The story of Sunfield Home
Chris and Lynne Bennett, parents of a young girl with Down Syndrome, pursued their dream of establishing a home for their daughter and other intellectually disabled young adults in the Western Cape. Together with other parents, they founded the Sunfield Home in Wellington, providing a loving and nurturing environment for over 100 residents and day-care adult individuals.
Each individual is screened to evaluate their strengths and allocate activities according to their abilities. A protective workshop has been established where contract work is undertaken, as well as arts and crafts activities. An employment scheme has also been developed and as a result permanent and successful positions have been found within the surrounding wine and cheese industries.
Find out more about us at: www.sunfieldhome.co.za
