Commentary on “Assisting individuals ageing with learning disability: support worker perspectives”

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the themes identified by Wark et al.’s paper and to highlight commonalities and differences between the Australian and the UK social and health care regimes. It also points to evidence about other implications for policy and practice of the increasing numbers of people growing older who have learning disabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The commentary analyses some policy and practice documents and identifies a range of other research and commentary on this topic.

Findings

Wark et al. have identified areas of importance for supporting older people with learning disabilities, particularly access to suitable and acceptable services and the importance of sufficient support worker time. They also identify gaps in the research on people’s needs and service responses. The commentary also highlights other factors for consideration in work with this group of people, particularly the implementation of personalisation policies in social care and integration between health and social care services.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for further research into developing policy and practice for health and social care for older people with learning disabilities. Some of the evidence supports the case for specialist involvement, particularly by nursing professionals.

Originality/value

The paper and this commentary highlight the challenges associated with the increasing number of older people with learning disabilities in contemporary debates about the role of the state and professional specialists.

Citation

Stevens, M. (2015), "Commentary on “Assisting individuals ageing with learning disability: support worker perspectives”", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 223-227. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLDR-07-2015-0029