In plain sight but still invisible: A structured case analysis of people with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning

Abstract

Background There has been substantial increase in the number of people with mild intellectual disability (MID) or borderline intellectual functioning referred to long-term care. Insight into the specific characteristics and needs of these people is essential to provide appropriate support and gain insight into the increase in referrals. Method This retrospective descriptive study was based on a structured case analysis of a sample of 250 participants.Results Mental health problems and exposure to social and familial disadvantages were common. Care provided before referral tended to be suboptimal. Individuals with borderline intellectual functioning had more personal and contextual problems than people with MID. Conclusion People with MID or borderline intellectual functioning are confronted with a wide range of complex problems; even after years of professional support they may still need intensive support. Differences in the characteristics and contexts between individuals with MID or borderline intellectual functioning require further exploration.

An Exploratory Study of the Support Needs in 24/7 Online Support for People With Mild Intellectual Disabilities

“…They have been found to experience lower levels of psychological well‐being, poorer physical health, reduced access to social capital, more problems in personal and social relationships, a lower employment rate, and a lower income than their peers (e.g., Ferrari, ; Peltopuro et al, ; Seltzer et al, ; Stancliffe & Lakin, ; Tymchuk, Lakin, & Luckasson, ; Vaillant & Davis, ). Moreover, several studies showed that the prevalence of mental health problems is relatively high among people with MID and BIF (Cooper, Smiley, Morrison, Williamson, & Allan, ; Dusseljee, Rijken, Cardol, Curfs, & Groenewegen, ; Emerson, Einfeld, & Stancliffe, ; Nouwens, Lucas, Embregts, & van Nieuwenhuizen, ).…”

Differentiating care for persons with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning: a Delphi study on the opinions of primary and professional caregivers and scientists

“…For example, they may experience limitations in their social life [1], have fewer friends, and restrictive access to social and leisure activities compared to typically developed individuals [2]. Moreover, many persons with MID or BIF are exposed to a range of negative family conditions, such as divorce, inconsistent parenting, parents with mental health problems, and/or a low financial status [3]. Also, due to the relationship between adverse child, family/contextual factors and mental health problems [4,5], many persons with MID or BIF suffer from mental health problems [6,7].…”

“…However, important differences have been demonstrated between persons with MID and BIF. For example, Nouwens, Lucas, Embregts, and Van Nieuwenhuizen [3] have shown that persons with BIF encounter more negative individual and social risk factors than persons with MID. Additionally, Emerson, Einfeld, and Stancliffe [11] stated that BIF is associated with poorer mental health in later childhood and adult life.…”

Identifying classes of persons with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning: a latent class analysis

“…Thus, the diversity within the population of persons with MID or BIF suggests possible heterogeneity and, consequently, the need for a differentiated approach. Better insight and understanding of this heterogeneity can help in attempts to develop more individualized support programs meeting the support needs of persons with MID or BIF [19]. …”