Suchergebnisse

AbstractBackgroundThere is a need to better understand the experiences and support needs of paid and family carers of people with an intellectual disability and dementia, and the role of Intellectual Disability Dementia Care Pathways (IDDCPs). This study explored the experiences of carers, and IDDCPs and other support structures within those experiences.MethodsA constructivist grounded theory methodology was implemented. Data were obtained through 23 semi‐structured interviews with two family carers, eight paid carers and eight healthcare professionals.FindingsThe study's theory produced five interrelated categories: Impact of Dementia, Challenging the Diagnosis Process, Continuum of Support, Continuity and Continuum of Understanding.ConclusionsFindings have demonstrated the importance of planning and supporting carers' holistic needs; the role of an IDDCP in the post‐diagnostic support (or lack of it) for carers; and the importance of a timely diagnosis of dementia. Recommendations for practice are offered.

AbstractBackgroundReunification of looked‐after children with their birth parents is the most common route to permanency for looked‐after children in the United Kingdom. Previous research evidence, mainly from American studies, suggests numerous factors that contribute to successful reunification outcomes (Biehal, 2007). Less is known about the current evidence base for reunification practice in the United Kingdom.ObjectiveThis review aimed to identify, appraise, and synthesize published literature concerned with the reunification of looked‐after children with their birth parents in the United Kingdom.MethodsA systematic search of the literature identified eight peer‐reviewed studies conducted between 2005 and 2017 exploring reunification practice in the United Kingdom. Studies were critically appraised and thematically synthesized according to the Thomas and Harden (2008) approach.ResultsEight articles met eligibility criteria. Descriptive themes were support, case management, oscillation, parenting, and reoccurrence of abuse. Analytic themes were lack of guidance and risks associated with return.ConclusionsA pattern of oscillation between home and care was common for many looked‐after children, and remaining in care produced relatively better outcomes. Difficulties arise when comparing studies on reunification, due to methodological variation. Further research is needed to explore the views of reunited children themselves.

BackgroundImproved life expectancy means that more adults with intellectual disabilities are now living with ageing parents. This study explored older families' perceptions of the future.MethodsSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with nine older parents and three adults with intellectual disabilities and analysed to produce an explanatory thematic framework.Results'Tolerating uncertainty' was the major theme in participants' attempts to manage anxieties about the future, encompassing sub‐themes of 'accepting the parenting role', 'facing challenges', 'being supported/isolated', 'positive meaning making', 're‐evaluating as time moves on' and 'managing future thinking'. Some participants expressed preferences for their future which were in contrast to their parents' views, and provide a unique perspective that has often been neglected in prior research.ConclusionsThis research has found commonalities in how families tolerate the uncertainty of the future, but also unique differences that require tailored interventions and prospective action by services.

This authoritative edited text looks at how diverse and complicated experiences of loss can be for people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID). It discusses current theory, practice issues in health and care settings, and specific considerations for children, individuals with autism, those in forensic environments, and those facing their own death