Growing health disparities for persons who are aging with intellectual and developmental disabilities: the social work linchpin.
Similar to the general population, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living into their 70s and beyond. Health care disparities have been well-documented for this vulnerable and underserved population. Social workers are often responsible for assessment, coordination of care, and negotiation of needed services for people with IDD. This article explores the challenges facing social workers in meeting the growing health and social needs of aging adults with IDD and their families. Trends in social work practice and gaps in education are discussed as they relate to addressing and reducing current health disparities.
Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY 14642, USA. LauraM_Robinson@urmc.rochester.edu
Laura M
LM
Robinson
Jason
J
Dauenhauer
Kathleen M
KM
Bishop
Joanne
J
Baxter
D000368:Aged; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D002658:Developmental Disabilities; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D054624:Health Status Disparities; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability; D008875:Middle Aged; D012947:Social Work / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration; D014481:United States