Background: This study aims to introduce direct support staff (DSS) working with adults with intellectual disabilities to the Holistic Support Model (HSM) and assess its influence on their perceptions of their professional role. The HSM, grounded in humanistic principles, guides the support process, prioritising autonomy and meaningful living.…

Background: Individuals with intellectual disability have deficits in postural balance and mobility. This study aimed to explore the effect of listening to music on postural balance and mobility in individuals with intellectual disability. Method: Ten participants with intellectual disability and 10 participants with typical development performed…

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the branch of behavior science focused on solving problems of social significance. For over six decades, ABA researchers and practitioners have sought to improve the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through application of evidence-based supports. Influenced by the disability…

Researchers have shown that behavioral interventions that incorporate communication as a focus have demonstrated efficacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Researchers have demonstrated that individuals with IDD allocate responding to one communicative response modality over others when multiple communicative…

The passage of the Higher Education Opportunity Act in 2008 triggered an increase in inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs across the United States, giving students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to enroll in typical college courses. A multiple case study of IPSE programs at five institutions of higher…

Background: Culinary nutrition education can support improved diet-related health and wellbeing. This pre-post pilot study aimed to assess feasibility and acceptability of an eight-session culinary nutrition programme, the Food and Lifestyle Information Programme (FLIP), for adults with mild-to-moderate intellectual disability. A secondary aim was…

Background: The main objective of this study was to compare the physical condition of people with intellectual disabilities living in residential homes (RH; restricted residential environment) versus independent homes (IH; family houses while performing paid work). The effect of gender on physical condition was also evaluated separately for each…

Best practices for technology use in academic settings, specifically those preparing students for postsecondary transition (ages 18-21) are not well documented and research studies commenting on the use of technology for acquisition of social and adaptive skills is limited. Literature indicates that students with mild-moderate intellectual and…

The post-school transition phenomenon has been examined using educational and vocational viewpoints. However, despite evidence-based practices and policies, individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) often experience unfavorable outcomes. This population needs a voice in existing literature because it tends to be aggregated with other…

Background: People with intellectual disabilities are often left out of research on important topics. This exploratory study investigated their views on barriers and facilitators to accessing care at end of life, both at home and in a hospice setting. Method: This qualitative study used reflexive thematic analysis. Two focus groups were held via…

Background: Although particular technologies can enhance the quality of life (QoL) of people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (we use the term pervasive support needs), their objectives and outcomes are understudied. A systematic literature review was therefore conducted to explore this topic. Method: A search of four databases…

Background: The participation of people with intellectual disabilities in Special Olympics sports and training opportunities offers numerous benefits for health and inclusion. However, little is known about the impact of such training on physical activity behaviour. Here, we evaluate the differences in physical activity volume and intensity of…

A growing body of evidence has attested to the higher impact of COVID-19 on individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) than on members of the general population during the pandemic, mainly showing their higher vulnerability. However, we believe it is important to better understand how their situation interacts with the specific circumstances…

Background: Mentalising and stress regulation pose challenges for adults with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities (MBID), emphasising the importance of an intervention program. The study examined the effectiveness and social validity of the serious game 'You & I' in enhancing mentalising and stress regulation among adults with MBID.…

Background: There is limited qualitative research focussed specifically on what it is like for children and young people with intellectual disabilities coming into hospital, with much of the evidence-base being about those with Autism Spectrum Condition or adults with intellectual disabilities. Aim: To share rich detail of the emotional and…