Author(s): Flynn, E.
Department: Department of Psychology, Brothers of Charity Services, Bawnmore, Limerick
Keywords: Intellectual Disability, Dementia, Baseline Screening
Reported: Ongoing research within the Organisation - Unpublished manuscript
(29 Jul 2009)
Undoubtedly, the life expectancy of people with intellectual
disabilities is increasing and the demographics of the population
catered for by the Brothers of Charity Limerick would indicate that a
high percentage of these individuals will fall into the demographic
group most at risk of developing dementia within the next 20 years. The
primary objective of this piece of research was to screen service users
from the Brothers of Charity Limerick (residential, day services,
Fairgreen Community Workshop) to obtain a baseline of functioning using
dementia screening questionnaires. Consent was obtained for 134
participants from both key workers and family members. The measures
used were the DMR (Dementia Questionnaire for people with Intellectual
Disabilities) (Evenhuis, Kengen & Eurlings, 2006) and the DLSQ
(Daily Living Skills Questionnaire) (National Institute of Ageing,
1989). The results of statistical analysis showed that level of
disability (Mild & Moderate v’s Severe & Profound) was an
important variable in determining scores on the DMR and the DLSQ.
Results of regression analysis showed that level of disability,
epilepsy and Down Syndrome were the variables better able to predict
DMR scores. With regards to implications for service provision
recommendations are made vis-à-vis periodical screenings, standardised
assessment protocol and training for staff.