Integrating systems of care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the lifespan

Abstract

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) will access many systems throughout their lifetime. These systems will help define needs and abilities, provide medical treatment, intervention and education, and give care and support. In order to effectively use these systems, people with disabilities, and their caregivers, need to become well versed in understanding individuals’ needs, community and individual supports and services, and how these systems providing these supports and services affect the lives of people with IDD throughout the lifespan. Appreciating the lack of integration of these systems and how to optimize utilization of their supports and services can empower individuals with IDD and their families to lead independent, successful and happy lives.