title: Social Connections for Older People with Intellectual Disability in Ireland: Results from Wave One of IDS-TILDA.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The literature on influences of community versus congregated settings raises questions about how social inclusion can be optimised for people with intellectual disability. This study examines social contacts for older people with intellectual disability in Ireland, examining differences in social connection for adults with intellectual disability and other adults.
  
  
  METHODS
  Data were drawn from the IDS-TILDA study in Ireland. A nationally representative sample (n = 753) included adults aged 40 years and older, with additional comparison with general population participants. Predictors of social contacts were explored.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Residence, level of intellectual disability and age were significant factors determining social contact. People in institutional residences, older respondents and those with severe/profound intellectual disability had the lowest levels of contact; older adults with intellectual disability had much lower rates than general population counterparts.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Community-dwelling people with intellectual disability have greater social contact than those living in institutions, but levels are below those for other adults in Ireland.
authors: School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
authors: Darren
authors: D
authors: McCausland
authors: School of Social Welfare, University of Albany, Albany, NY, USA.
authors: Philip
authors: P
authors: McCallion
authors: School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
authors: Eimear
authors: E
authors: Cleary
authors: Dean of Faculty of Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
authors: Mary
authors: M
authors: McCarron
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000523:psychology*; D007494:Ireland; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012944:Social Support
keywords: community living; intellectual disability; older people; social contact