Understanding Natural Supports in Diverse Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Across Life Domains

• Published in: American journal on intellectual and developmental disabilities 2024-07, Vol.129 (4), p.247-262
• Main Authors: Sanderson, Kelli A, Burke, Meghan M, Hodapp, Robert M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Black or African American - statistics & numerical data; Community Support; Developmental Disabilities; Developmentally disabled people; Employment; Employment, Supported - statistics & numerical data; Ethnicity; Ethnicity - statistics & numerical data; Family Support - statistics & numerical data; Housing; Housing - statistics & numerical data; Humans; Intellectual disabilities; Intellectual Disability; Participation; Polls & surveys; Quality of Life; Race; Racial Groups - statistics & numerical data; Social interaction; Social Networking; Social support; Social Support - statistics & numerical data; Sociodemographics; Supporters; Surveys and Questionnaires
• ISSN: 1944-7515; 1944-7558; 1944-7558
• DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-129.4.247

Although natural supports benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), little is known about natural support provided within specific life domains or how race/ethnicity or support from professionals impacts the extent of natural support one receives. In this study, 518 parents of adults with IDD responded to a national survey about natural supports, including who provides support, the number of supporters, and variables that predict natural supports. Family most often provided support, although professionals and family friends were frequent supporters in several domains. Natural support was most extensive in health, least extensive in employment and housing. Individuals with IDD who regularly participated in daytime activities and/or identified as Black had more extensive natural support. Implications are discussed.