Successful ageing for people with an intellectual disability

Successful ageing has not yet been defined in people with an intellectual disability. The purpose of this review is to discuss and define successful ageing in the context of intellectual disability and to propose strategies to improve health and wellbeing for this population.

People with an intellectual disability experience higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, obesity and cardiovascular disease, and higher rates of mental disorders than people without an intellectual disability. People with an intellectual disability engage in more passive leisure activities because many active leisure activities require the participation of or assistance by others. Health promotion programmes tailored to people with an intellectual disability consisting of exercise and health education can result in more positive attitudes toward exercise and improvements in psychosocial outcomes.

With modifications for people with an intellectual disability, the concept of successful ageing can be used as a template for development of strategies to improve health and wellbeing for people with an intellectual disability as they age. Targeted programmes focused on health promotion and prevention of age-related morbidities is required. There is a need for policies addressing positive ageing, including social participation and maximizing community participation. Appropriate and ongoing education for people with an intellectual disability and their carers on healthy living in areas of physical, social, and cognitive activity, nutrition and avoidance of risk factors is essential.