Policy concerns raised by the growing U.S. population aging with disability

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Disability Studies
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The population of Americans aging with disabilities is rapidly increasing.
• Current policies and practices for supporting this demographic are insufficient.
• Existing research often fails to address the unique needs of older adults with disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify critical research areas for improving independent functioning and community participation.
• To address the discordance between research on aging individuals and younger persons with disabilities.
• To inform the development of effective policies and practices for this growing population.

Main Methods:

• A conference convened experts to discuss challenges and research priorities.
• Identification of six key areas requiring focused investigation.
• Analysis of the differences in research approaches for elderly individuals versus persons with disabilities.

Main Results:

• Six major research areas were identified: independent living resources, quality of life, activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental ADLs, family roles, medical care, and cross-sectoral concerns.
• A critical need exists to bridge the gap between research on aging and disability.
• Effective strategies for supporting older adults with disabilities remain largely unknown.

Conclusions:

• Further research is imperative to develop effective strategies for supporting Americans aging with disabilities.
• Integrating insights from both aging and disability research is crucial for future advancements.
• Policy and practice development must consider the unique intersection of aging and disability.