Introduction: This paper aims to identify to what extent staff training interventions are successful in enhancing the development of communication skills in people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. Methods: A systematic review was undertaken, conforming to PRISMA guidelines. English language, peer reviewed, empirical studies of…

Background: Most adults with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology in their 30s, yet research into cognitive health programmes for this group remains limited. Method: A mixed-methods feasibility randomised control trial (RCT) evaluated an adapted, manualised group-based cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) programme for adults…

Socioemotional learning (SEL) is the process of developing social and emotional competences through which the child learns to recognize and manage emotions, care for others, make good decisions, behave responsibly and ethically, develop positive relationships and avoid negative behaviours (Promoting social and emotional learning: Guidelines for…

Background: This study evaluated the Step-by-Step Parenting Program (SBSPP) to prepare expectant parents with intellectual disabilities to care for their newborns. Method: Two expectant parents with intellectual disabilities were seen once or twice weekly in their homes for about 2 h over 16 and 20 weeks (21 and 27 sessions), respectively. The key…

Background: People with Down syndrome (DS) are predisposed to challenges with executive functions (EF), which are crucial for adaptive outcomes and academic success. Early interventions targeting EF are therefore critical. The present study analysed Italian data on the acceptability, enjoyability and household implementation of EXPO (EXecutive…

Abstract Social inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is related to positive mental health and social outcomes; yet, individuals with IDD experience societal barriers that limit opportunities for community participation. Providing opportunities for interactions between individuals with and without IDD…

Background: Parents experience difficulties supporting children with intellectual disabilities when they exit the school system. One promising way to mitigate this problem is to set up school-based parent support groups. This study aimed to examine the development and feasibility of school-based parent support groups in South Korea designed to…

Background: Individuals with intellectual disabilities need continued supports in completing daily living tasks to increase the likelihood of achieving independence. Fortunately, research has shown that assistive technology, and particularly video prompting helps support independent living for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Aims: This…

Background: Research suggests that providing staff with input in relation to Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) can have beneficial outcomes. Much of this research, however, fails to take account of systemic issues and does not include a control group. Method: We used a non-randomised, controlled group design to evaluate accredited PBS programmes,…

Background: Positive behavioural support (PBS) has been identified as a means of improving the quality of life and support of people with an intellectual disability. This qualitative study explored the views of service providers about a regional PBS programme, that was underpinned by a workforce development approach. Method: Semi-structured…

Background: Children and youth with autism spectrum disorder have significant, multi-system needs that require supports, such as the autism waiver (AW) service delivery model. This study aimed to identify and describe characteristics of the AW, define obstacles and strengths in the provision of adequate services and provide recommendations for…

Background: Australian disability services must comply with quality standards defined by federal government. Standards are abstract, focus on paperwork and rarely describe what good service quality looks like in practice. This research explored frontline day service staff's perceptions of good service quality to identify ways that it may be better…

Background: Soccer is the world's most popular sport. The present authors evaluated the effect of the Game of Life (GOL) soccer initiative on soccer skills, fitness and mobility of adults with intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: The programme is comprised of once-weekly sessions. Outcomes: soccer skills,…

Background: The review examined the effectiveness of Active Support (RQ1) and stakeholders' experiences of the model (RQ2). Method: Data were meta-analysed (RQ1; studies = 14) and synthesized narratively (RQ2; studies = 10). Results: By follow-up (6 months post-training), effect sizes (RQ1) for resident total activity engagement were significant…

Background: The cognitive and behavioural profile associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) includes difficulties with social interaction, communication and empathy. Each of these may present barriers to effective participation in sexual offending treatment, leading to poorer outcomes. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with…