Physical health issues in adults with severe or profound intellectual and motor disabilities: a systematic review of cross‐sectional studies

Abstract

This review provides an overview of the current state of the art research on the prevalence of health problems in adults with SPIMD. There is a substantial need for comprehensive epidemiological data in order to find clusters of health problems specific for people with SPIMD. This would provide insight into the excess morbidity associated with SPIMD.

Prevalence of reported physical health problems in people with severe or profound intellectual and motor disabilities: a cross‐sectional study of medical records and care plans

“…). In a recent systematic review, meta‐analysis indicated a prevalence of 16%, which is lower compared with the current study (Van Timmeren et al ., in press). Gastro‐oesophageal reflux is known to have non‐specific symptoms and is frequently overlooked (Bohmer et al .…”

“…). In addition, the prevalence of dysphagia (47%) was in accordance with previous studies (Van Timmeren et al ., in press).…”

“…Therefore, the prevalence of these problems remains uncertain (Van Timmeren et al . Under Review), hence, the need to gain further knowledge regarding the entire range of physical health problems in this population.…”

Gustatory function in persons with cerebral palsy

“…In persons with CP, evaluation of sensory function is also difficult compared to motor function due to an inability to communicate. However, previous studies have revealed that sensory dysfunctions such as visual, hearing and olfactory impairments frequently exist in persons with CP . Sensory cells, synapses, afferent nerves and the central nervous system must be evaluated to determine the presence of a sensory dysfunction.…”

Making a difference? A comparison between multi‐sensory and regular storytelling for persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities

“…). They frequently suffer from general health problems and sensory impairments (van Timmeren, van der Schans, van der Putten, Krijnen, Steenbergen, van Schrojenstein Lantman‐de Valk & Waninge, under review). Persons with PIMD do therefore fully depend on their environment (Nakken & Vlaskamp ).…”