Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Service Experiences of Individuals With Intellectual Disability in Sweden: Differences Between Men and Women

Abstract

This study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on service experiences of individuals with intellectual disability in Sweden, with a focus on differences between men and women. Using large-scale self-reported survey data from the National User Survey (2017–2022), changes in satisfaction with social services, including daily activity services, group homes and service homes, were analysed. Overall, satisfaction levels remained high, with notable variations between service types and differences between men and women. Satisfaction with daily activity services was reported with a higher score during the pandemic for both men and women, whereas no significant changes were observed for group homes, and satisfaction with service homes was reported with slightly lower scores. Across all service types and questions, men consistently reported a higher satisfaction than women. Women did not report a higher satisfaction than men in any instance, and disparities were particularly evident in aspects related to decision-making and feelings of safety. The findings highlight the pandemic's differential impact on service experiences for men and women with intellectual disability, underlining the importance of addressing sex disparities in service provision. These results have implications for policy and practice, particularly in designing more inclusive and equitable support systems that involve individuals with intellectual disability in decision-making processes and respond to their unique needs during health crises.