Physical Health in People with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to outline the importance of good physical health for a person with intellectual disability (ID) on their mental health and wellbeing; the impact of the choice of psychotropic therapy on their physical health; the presentations of mental disorders in people with ID with health problems; what to include in assessment—good history taking, physical examination, and investigations. Other aspects covered are the management of health problems including health prevention and what to monitor; the role of guidelines; and importance of liaison with GPs and the Primary Care Team.