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The needs of the intellectually handicapped
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|September 28, 1977
Summary
New Zealand supports 10,000 intellectually handicapped individuals, most capable of semi-independent community living with proper support services. A minority require specialized institutional care, emphasizing the need for community-based action.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Public Health
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Approximately 10,000 intellectually handicapped individuals reside in New Zealand.
- The majority are healthy, mobile adults with rights akin to other citizens.
- Current provisions require significant development to meet diverse needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current state of services for intellectually handicapped people in New Zealand.
- To advocate for community-based support systems.
- To inform policy and action regarding intellectual disability services.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative assessment of existing services and needs.
- Analysis of the potential for community integration.
- Review of requirements for specialized care.
Main Results:
- Most intellectually handicapped individuals can achieve semi-independent living with adequate community support.
- A smaller group requires specialized, community-located institutional care.
- There is a clear need for enhanced, action-oriented service development.
Conclusions:
- Effective community-based support services are crucial for the semi-independent living of most intellectually handicapped individuals.
- Small, community-integrated institutions are appropriate for those with complex needs.
- Urgent, practical action is required to improve provisions for intellectually handicapped citizens.