Changing existing services for older people with an intellectual disability

This paper deals with the implicationsofthenational study ofolder peoplewith an intellectual disability conducted by Ashman, Suttie, and Bramley (1993). It draws attention to a number of the majorfindings and their relevance for service delivery to this targetgroupofpeopleand their families. In brief, it is argued that older people with an intellectual disability must be considered as individuals rather than as members of a homogeneous group, and that their personal circumstance and needs must be taken into consideration when programming recreation and leisure activities, and when planning their future residential placements. There is a need to be vigilant about medical and hea Ith needs as people age, and to consider ways of improving their problem solving skills and their involvement in decisions that will affect them