Improving quality of life and reducing behavioral problems of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through deinstitutionalization

Abstract

[EN] Antecedents: People with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) with extensive support needs are more likely to live in segregated and highly institutionalized environments. The aim of this study was to analyze changes in functioning and quality of life for people with IDD and extensive support needs after transitioning to ordinary homes in the community. Method: The sample included 54 adults with IDD and extensive support needs, who were assessed at three time points: before transition, six months later, and one year after transition. The Resident Choice Scale, San Martin Quality of Life Scale, Active Support Participation Measure, and the Behavior Problem section of the Inventory for Client and Agency Planning were administered. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and t-tests for repeated measures were carried out. Results: There were significant improvements in decision-making, participation and independence in daily activities and quality of life, as well as a reduction in the presence and intensity of behavioral problems. Conclusions: The benefits found in this study support transformation processes towards more inclusive services and professional practices that foster people’s rights and feeling of belonging to the community.

[ES] Antecedentes: Las personas con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo (DID) con grandes necesidades de apoyo tienen más probabilidades de vivir en entornos segregados y altamente institucionalizados. Este estudio pretende analizar los cambios en el funcionamiento y calidad de vida de este colectivo tras la transición a viviendas ubicadas en la comunidad. Método: La muestra incluyó 54 adultos con DID con grandes necesidades de apoyo que fueron evaluados en tres momentos temporales: antes de la transición, seis meses y un año después de la misma. Se aplicaron los instrumentos Resident Choice Scale, la Escala de Calidad de Vida San Martín, Active Support Participation Measure y la sección de Problemas de Conducta del Inventory for Client and Agency Planning. Los datos fueron analizados a partir de modelos de ecuaciones estructurales de mínimos cuadrados parciales (PLS-SEM) y pruebas t para medidas repetidas. Resultados: Se observaron mejoras significativas en toma de decisiones, participación e independencia en actividades cotidianas y en calidad de vida, así como una reducción de los problemas de conducta. Conclusiones: Los beneficios encontrados apoyan la necesidad de llevar a cabo procesos de transformación hacia servicios y prácticas profesionales más inclusivas que fomenten los derechos y la pertenencia comunitaria.