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The paradox of ageing with developmental disabilities: Increasing needs, declining resources

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Abstract

There is a new, still somewhat hidden population—persons ageing with developmental disabilities. This population, though estimates of size vary, has survived to later life due to better health care and deinstitutionalization. Yet as this population of persons with developmental disabilities ages, it will raise new challenges for gerontologists and specialists in the field of developmental disabilities. The situation of persons ageing with developmental disabilities is characterized by a paradox. As persons with developmental disabilities age, they are likely to experience cognitive and physical deficits that increase their need for services and support. Yet their family-based support systems (who are also ageing) may be less available and social services may be ill suited to assist. The growing numbers of persons aging with developmental disabilities may call into question not only the policies and programs designed to serve this emergent population, but also the very ways we educate and train professionals working in the fields of gerontology and developmental disabilities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The College of New Rochelle, 10806, New Rochelle, NY

    Kenneth J. Doka (Graduate Program, Professor of Gerontology, Senior Consultant) & Claire Lavin (a Professor of Psychology)

  2. the Hospice Foundation of America, USA

    Kenneth J. Doka (Graduate Program, Professor of Gerontology, Senior Consultant)

Authors
  1. Kenneth J. Doka
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  2. Claire Lavin
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Additional information

He has authored sixteen books.

She is a consulting psychologist to many organizations and school districts dealing with persons with disabilities. Dr. Lavin coauthored with Dr. DokaAging and Developmental Disabilities.

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Doka, K.J., Lavin, C. The paradox of ageing with developmental disabilities: Increasing needs, declining resources. Ageing Int. 28, 135–154 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12126-003-1021-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12126-003-1021-9

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