Self-directed support: impact of hiring practices on adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and families

Am J Intellect Dev Disabil. 2012 Nov;117(6):464-77. doi: 10.1352/1944-7558-117.6.464.

Abstract

The study examined the differential experiences and outcomes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families receiving self-directed services based on the type of personal support worker hired (parents, siblings, other relatives, friends, and agency staff). The sample consisted of 372 participants in a self-directed waiver program who used personal assistance services. Results indicated that the caregiver's satisfaction with the personal support worker, self-efficacy in managing personal support workers, and mental health varied significantly based on type of personal support worker hired. Also, the physical health and daily choice making of the adults with disabilities differed significantly by type of personal support worker hired.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Caregivers
  • Cost of Illness
  • Developmental Disabilities / epidemiology
  • Developmental Disabilities / psychology*
  • Employment, Supported / psychology*
  • Family*
  • Female
  • Friends
  • Humans
  • Income
  • Intellectual Disability / epidemiology
  • Intellectual Disability / psychology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Parents
  • Personnel Selection
  • Siblings
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Treatment Outcome