Transitioning to long-term care for older adults with intellectual disabilities: A concept analysis

AIM: To undertake a concept analysis of transitioning to long-term care for older adults with intellectual disabilities. BACKGROUND: Individuals with an intellectual disability are experiencing increased longevity which is associated with an increase in transitions in later life to long-term care. Their experience of later life transitions is likely to be different to the general older population. METHODOLOGY: Concept Analysis was undertaken using the Walker and Avant framework. RESULTS: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Defining attributes are an older person with intellectual disability; a planned relocation to a long-term care facility; person-centred; and supported decision-making. CONCLUSION: There is a dearth of empirical evidence and theorisation on this concept. Transitions of this nature have been inadequately informed by the perspective of the older person with an intellectual disability, and future research and practice requires greater efforts to include their voice.