Overview of Health Issues of Older Women with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Health researchers, educators and providers have begun to address the health needs of women and girls with disabilities in the U.S. Older women with intellectual disabilities, however, remain underrepre-sented in the national health research agenda. As this population becomes more visible and empowered through policies that support greater community integration and longevity, they and their families, professionals and advocates need more accurate information about their health concerns and options. A critical problem is that professionals receive little training regarding the health concerns and experiences of women with intellectual disabilities who are growing older. This paper provides an overview of primary health issues related to aging for women with intellectual disabilities in the following areas: (1) general health, (2) reproductive health, (3) mental health, and (4) access to health services. The paper concludes with a discussion of implications for practice and research, and recommendations for future research and health service provision for women with intellectual disabilities.

Key Words:

• Intellectual disabilities
• mental retardation
• women's health
• older women
• aging
• developmental disabilities
• health care

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carol J. Gill

Jennifer R. Johnson was a graduate student in the School of Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman's University, Houston, TX at the time of this study. She is currently employed as an Occupational Therapist at Touro Infirmary in New Orleans, LA

Debra Stewart is Lecturer, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University and staff therapist at Erinoak Centre, Missis-sauga, Ontario. She is currently completing a MSc (Design, Measurement and Evaluation) at McMaster University.

Ronald L. Mace (deceased, June 29, 1998) was also affiliated with The Center for Universal Design, School of Design, North Carolina University.

Lois Rosage and Geraldine Shaw are Occupational Therapist Consultants who provide evaluations for the housing programs at the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.