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People with intellectual disabilities living in care facilities engaging in virtual social contact: A systematic review of the feasibility and effects on well‐being
Author(s) -
Bakkum Lianne,
Schuengel Carlo,
Sterkenburg Paula S.,
Frielink Noud,
Embregts Petri J. C. M.,
Schipper Johanna Clasien,
Brug Annet,
Tharner Anne
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1468-3148
pISSN - 1360-2322
DOI - 10.1111/jar.12926
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , intellectual disability , social contact , information and communications technology , psychology , social care , health care , scientific literature , nursing , public relations , internet privacy , medical education , medicine , sociology , qualitative research , social psychology , computer science , political science , world wide web , psychiatry , social science , paleontology , law , biology
Background During the initial phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic, many people with disabilities living in home care facilities could not receive visitors. The use of virtual social contact has been recommended by health authorities. This systematic review examined the scientific evidence of the use and feasibility of information and communication technology (ICT) for social contact by people with intellectual disabilities living in care facilities, and potential effects on well‐being. Methods Five databases were searched using traditional systematic screening and machine‐learning supported screening. Findings are presented in a narrative synthesis using thematic analysis. Results Nine studies were included. We described three themes: means of ICT used for social contact; effects on well‐being; and benefits, barriers, and preconditions. Conclusions Engaging in virtual social contact may be feasible for people with severe to mild intellectual disabilities, but there is little concrete evidence that this can be used as an alternative for in‐person contact.