Family Carers of Adult Persons with Intellectual Disabilities on the Island of Ireland

Abstract

Many families provide lifelong support to their relative with an intellectual disability. However, relatively little information is available for national populations on the characteristics of the people for whom these families care and the supports they receive or need. A database of all persons in receipt of intellectual disability services has been operating in the Republic of Ireland since 1995 and records details of those living with family carers. In Northern Ireland, regional databases provide similar information. Using both sources, data were obtained on over 12,500 people living with family carers; half of whom lived with two parents, around 30% with a lone parent, and just under 20% with another relative. More people in Northern Ireland were identified as living with family carers, which was attributed mainly to less available residential alternatives. Only a minority of carers received respite breaks and domiciliary supports although higher proportions required them. The authors conclude that family care arrangements have received relatively little attention within government policy making, and hence service provision has been largely reactive. Future research should focus on the changing needs of carers over time and how they can be better supported in their role.

Residential Provision for Adult Persons with Intellectual Disabilities in Ireland

“…Using their estimates, the proportion of people aged ≥50 years in residential services in Northern Ireland will increase from 44% to 53% over 20 years and approximately 200 extra places will be required in Northern Ireland to meet the same demand as at present for people aged under 50 years. In addition, by 2021 around 1800 people presently living with family carers were judged to require an out‐of‐home placement (Barron et al. 2006).…”

“…In the Irish Republic, comparable figures are an extra 400 places to maintain present levels of provision given the increased longevity of the population plus an additional 1600 places for people living with family carers (Barron et al. 2006).…”

Robotization in Disabled Care: Projection of the Impact on the Economy and Methodological Framework Evaluation

“…Only the United States provide care for more than 2.4 million people annually (Alaiad & Zhou, 2014). The figures in EU vary, but according to several studies, severe disability rate seeks -9.3 percent and two in five disabled persons aren't getting basic needs (Barron, Mc Conkey& Mulvany, 2006). Naturally, "the family is still an important provider of care" (Bettio & Plantenga) 2004).…”

Raising a child with disability and dealing with life events

“…People with intellectual disability often live at home longer than their siblings, and parents remain an important practical and emotional support during adulthood (Maxwell and Barr, 2003;Barron et al, 2006). Parenting can be for the lifetime of the individual, and this longevity can affect the quality of life of parents.…”