Disability Service Providers Supporting Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia Living in Group Homes: A Qualitative, Exploratory Study

Dementia is a global health issue. For adults with intellectual disabilities living with dementia, diagnosis and support pose unique challenges. For those who reside in shared disability supported accommodation (group homes), there are additional considerations regarding support and ageing in place. Semi-structured interviews with twelve staff from three disability service providers in Australia were conducted to explore the experiences of disability service providers supporting adults with intellectual disabilities and dementia. The study found that delays in diagnosis hampered timely and effective interventions and, consequently, the care and support received by those adults with intellectual disabilities living with dementia. This impacted organisations’ ability to adequately staff accommodation and remunerate disability support workers. This had implications for those in group homes, where the needs of other residents were affected. Lastly, while ageing in place was considered desirable, none of the provider organisations had guidelines for remaining in the home. This study highlights the need for further investigation into this growing population, including those living in the community.