Main Article Content
Health conditions and support needs of persons living in residential facilities for adults with intellectual disability in Western Cape Province
Abstract
Objective. To analyse the health conditions and support needs of persons with ID in Western Cape Province.
Method. A survey of residents’ health conditions and support needs was conducted in face-to-face interviews with the managers of 37 out of 41 identified facilities.
Results and conclusion. The survey comprised 2 098 residents (54% of them female), representing less than 2% of the estimated population of persons with ID in the province. The survey suggests that such persons experience a wide range of health conditions (notably mental health and behavioural issues) but have limited access to general healthcare and rehabilitation services. Furthermore, the daily living supports required for an acceptable quality of life are limited. The findings highlight the need for better health and support provision to persons with ID.