Experiences and perspectives of professional caregivers on the transition of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: From the parental home to residential care facilities.

Abstract

Background: Few studies have examined how professional caregivers perceive the relocation of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the family home to specialised residential settings.

Method: We conducted semi-structured interviews with eight professional caregivers, exploring their experiences of admitting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities into residential care. Transcripts were analysed using Mayring's qualitative content analysis.

Results: Caregivers primarily addressed facility-related aspects of the transition, including the admission process, communication with families, and staffing concerns. They offered limited commentary on residents' personal experiences or family dynamics during the move.

Conclusion: To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this life-changing transition, future research should investigate the perspectives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities themselves, complementing prior studies focused on relatives.