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Elders who experience stress, depression, and anxiety in connection with sudden care transitions may benefit from a visit with a mental health care professional. However, many elders with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have difficulty communicating, which can affect the quality of care they receive.
For that reason, an article in a recent issue of Generations Journal recommends asking elders with IDD whether they would like a trusted family member, friend, or agency staff member to accompany them when seeking care.
The article also highlights the need for training that will enhance the ability of mental health care professionals to serve elders with IDD. Ideally, that training would help care professionals recognize behavioral changes that may be caused by dementia or inadequate pain management.
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