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Family Voices: Life for Family Carers of People with Intellectual Disabilities in Ireland
Author(s) -
Chadwick Darren D.,
Mannan Hasheem,
Garcia Iriarte Edurne,
McConkey Roy,
O'Brien Patricia,
Finlay Frieda,
Lawlor Anne,
Harrington Gerry
Publication year - 2013
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.12003
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , intellectual disability , psychology , family member , focus group , participatory action research , qualitative research , family support , family life , citizen journalism , public relations , nursing , medicine , sociology , political science , gender studies , psychiatry , family medicine , social science , anthropology , physical therapy , law
Background Families in I reland remain the main providers of support for people with Intellectual disabilities, and the aim of this study was to map their life experiences whilst involving their family members as co‐researchers. Materials and Method This qualitative, participatory study involved 10 focus groups attended by 70 parents and siblings of people with intellectual disabilities. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Caring for a family member with intellectual disabilities was found to be a dynamic and adaptive process. The well‐being of the family and the challenges they face throughout their lives was the central theme identified. This was affected by: the availability of appropriate supports for families and having to advocate for them, communication and relationships with services and professionals, the availability of information and attitudes towards disability and governmental support. Conclusions Strategies are suggested as to how services can better support family carers in Ireland in their role. These include families being provided with flexible and timely support for families at critical times; being offered services, support, entitlements and information without having to fight for them; knowing that their family member with intellectual disabilities is well cared for, listened to and provided with opportunities to develop and be part of the community; and carers being shown respect, listened to and involved in decisions.