Participation in mainstream community groups by older United States adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A multiple case study

ABSTRACT

Background

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities want to be included in all aspects of community life, but social inclusion continues to be very limited.

Method

We used a qualitative multiple case study to describe the experiences and perspectives of four older workers or retirees with intellectual and developmental disabilities aged 45 to 63 who each participated in a different socially inclusive community group.

Results

Three themes emerged: finding a good match; support for participation; and the outcomes of participating in a mainstream community group. A good match included both the group's activity and the people in the group. Support came from family, disability service provider staff, and the members of their group. The person's own attitudes and abilities also supported their participation. Inclusion in mainstream community groups led to a sense of belonging and other beneficial outcomes.

Conclusions

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can successfully participate long term in mainstream community groups.

KEYWORDS:

• Social inclusion
• community groups
• belonging
• retirement
• intellectual and developmental disabilities
• case study

Acknowledgements

Grantees undertaking government-sponsored projects are encouraged to freely express their findings and conclusions. Therefore, points of view or opinions do not necessarily represent official NIDILRR policy.

Disclosure statement

All authors declare that they have no competing interests. All authors have contributed to, seen, and approved of the manuscript and agree to the order of authors as listed on the title page.

Data availability statement

Deidentified interview transcripts may be requested from the first author and will be deposited online with the Interuniversity Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR).

Additional information

Funding

Development of this article was supported by the Research and Training Center for Community Living from the National Institute on Disability Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [grant #90RTCP0003].