Aging Adults With Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities: Overview
Presented by Cynthia N. Potter
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Individuals aging with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living longer than previous generations and their numbers are increasing. Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, and occupational therapist assistants in all settings are likely to encounter those with I/DD as patients. There is a need to understand the unique differences in the aging process as compared with aging in the typical population. The ability to recognize the specific functional, medical, cognitive, and psychosocial problems that may occur is key to effectively treat and develop appropriate health promotion strategies is to support a high quality of life for individuals with I/DD. The World Health Organization notes that as more people with IDD age, health care needs increase and further disparities in functional impairment, morbidity, and mortality can occur. This course will cover the common characteristics and clinical issues associated with aging in this population and appropriate physical activity and fall prevention strategies that may be appropriate for this population.
Meet your instructor
Cynthia N. Potter
Cindy Potter, PT, MS, DPT, has worked with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in many different practice settings, including early intervention, outpatient, preschool, school, community-based settings, and ICF/IDD facilities for 39 years. She earned a BS in biology and English writing from…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Age-Related Health Conditions in Adults With I/DD: Premature Aging and Common Medical Conditions
This chapter will describe premature aging in adults with I/DD and describe common medical conditions that are more prevalent in those who are aging with a lifelong disability. The impact of obesity and lifelong differences in physical activity are described. Differences between those with severe and profound I/DD and those with lesser cognitive involvement will be discussed.
2. Age-Related Health Conditions in Adults With I/DD: Sensory, Cognitive, and Behavioral Considerations
Certain conditions are associated with aging in those with I/DD and are more prevalent in this population. This chapter will describe premature aging in adults with I/DD and describe these conditions which are related to aging with a lifelong disability. Differences between those with severe and profound I/DD and those with lesser cognitive involvement will be discussed.
3. Assessment of Physical Capabilities/Physical Fitness Tests
There is limited research on the feasibility of tools to measure physical activity and balance in adults with I/DD. Selection of appropriate evaluation tools is important to establish a reliable functional baseline and to track changes and treatment outcomes. This chapter will review the research on the tools that physical therapists can consider to measure physical activity and balance.
4. Fall Incidence and Prevention in Individuals With I/DD
Prevention of falls and associated mortality and morbidity is important as people age. This chapter describes specific factors associated with falls in those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and strategies for fall prevention.
