Aging Well With a Lifelong Disability: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Disability Studies
• Public Health

Background:

• Lifelong disability presents unique health and social challenges for aging individuals.
• Existing literature indicates a need for better understanding and support for this population to age well.
• This scoping review addresses the gap by mapping current research on aging well with lifelong disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map existing literature on the concept of "aging well" among individuals with lifelong disabilities.
• To identify key themes and research findings related to aging well in this population.
• To pinpoint areas for future research and intervention development.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was conducted.
• Searches included five scientific databases and gray literature sources.
• Keywords focused on "aging well" and "lifelong disability" (disability present since birth or early childhood).

Main Results:

• Eighty-one studies were identified, with 70% focusing on intellectual disabilities.
• Two primary themes emerged: (1) framing of aging well and (2) multilevel factors for supporting aging well.
• Research suggests interventions can be situated at micro-, meso-, and macro-levels.

Conclusions:

• The current literature frames aging well for people with lifelong disabilities in specific ways.
• Multilevel interventions are crucial for improving aging well outcomes.
• Significant evidence gaps exist, particularly research involving diverse disability groups and specific aging well interventions.