Perceived health and wellbeing among community-dwelling older Australians with intellectual disability: A comparison with age peers

Data specifically comparing outcomes for people with and without intellectual disability is limited. This paper reports perceived health and wellbeing of older Australians resident in metropolitan and rural locations in New South Wales and Queensland. Respondents were community-residing individuals with intellectual disability and mainstream age peers [age >= 60]. Measures included SF12; Cummings well-being scales; DSSI; Adverse Life Events; and financial hardship status. The sample was composed of 391 adults with intellectual disability and 920 age peers. Adults with intellectual disability were significantly more likely to note adverse life events, worse mental health, and lower levels of social support, but reported higher mean wellbeing scores and had higher scores for physical health. Results indicated higher likelihood of adults with intellectual disability reporting comparative disadvantage across multiple key areas when compared to age peers.

Automated summary

This study investigates the health and wellbeing of adults with intellectual disability. The findings suggest that adults with intellectual disability experience more adverse life events, poorer mental health, and lower levels of social support compared to their age peers. However, they report higher levels of overall wellbeing and better physical health.