Ireland’s First Longitudinal Study on Ageing in Persons with Intellectual Disability Rolls Out Nationally
In February 2010, the first wave of data collection for one of the most important studies ever to be undertaken in Ireland or Europe on ageing in persons with intellectual disability will commence. The Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA) will involve approximately 800 people with intellectual disability aged 40 years and over from across Ireland.
Throughout the year, letters of invitation will be sent to individuals randomly selected for this national study. We would encourage everyone selected to take part, regardless of their level of intellectual disability, to ensure that the results accurately reflect and improve our understanding of all aspects of people’s lives as they grow older in Ireland. The support of people with intellectual disability, families and services will be critical for the success of this study.
Led by Professor Mary McCarron, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, the IDS-TILDA is the first study of its kind in Europe, and the only study with the potential of comparing the ageing of people with intellectual disability directly with the general ageing population. The study findings will guide efforts to develop a comprehensive strategy on successful ageing, health promotion and disease prevention, and the improvement of health and social services for older people with intellectual disability in Ireland.
"It was a privilege, I was proud to tell her all about me, and how I was getting on and all the things I do in my life. I liked it when she came to visit me because I like people to visit me, I liked her company and I told her I was very happy".
Mr. Barry Griffin, Co. Mayo, 2009
This was a quote from one of the participants in the recently completed pilot phase of the IDS-TILDA.
The IDS-TILDA team is committed to supporting the participation of all selected individuals in this very important study. We need to talk to people with all levels of intellectual disability so that we can get a true picture of people’s lives as they grow older. People can take part in this study:
- with the assistance of a support person present, or
- a support person can answer questions on the person’s behalf, if required.
Showcards have also been developed to aid communication, maximise participation and empower people with intellectual disability in this study.
The following is a quote from a support worker who supported a participant to take part in the pilot phase of the IDS-TILDA;
“As a key worker I was delighted to assist a client who chose to participate in the pilot study. I am particularly delighted to see people with intellectual disability included in such a big way in this very important research”.
Ms. Mary McCann, Co. Mayo, 2009
We hope that if you or someone you know is selected for this study that they will decide to take part and enjoy the experience.
Together let’s work towards making Ireland the best place to grow older.
If you have any queries about the study or require any further information please call the research team on (01) 896 3186 / 3187 or email idstotilda@tcd.ie
A copy of the pilot report is available here.
An accessible copy of the pilot report is available here. |
