Strategies used by older women with intellectual disability to create and maintain their social networks: An exploratory qualitative study

Introduction: Social networks are important to health and wellbeing, and enhancing social networks are key occupations for older people. This is relevant for older people with intellectual disability, particularly older women, who face challenges in building social networks, and their social networks are vulnerable to loss as they age. This study aimed to investigate how older women with intellectual disability create and maintain their social networks. Method: This exploratory qualitative study involved conducting in-depth interviews with five women with mild to moderate intellectual disability (as defined by their service organisation) aged over 50 years and living in the community, using the Support Interview Guide, that has previously been used with younger adults with intellectual disability. Participants could communicate in spoken English. Data were coded line by line and analysed using a thematic analysis. Results: Participants created social networks independently and through others. Strategies used included communicating, sharing activities, celebrating special occasions, organising activities, supporting each other, having a routine, being out and about and using formal assistance. Barriers and facilitators were also identified. Conclusion: As older women with intellectual disability age, occupational therapists and support organisations need to focus on assisting this group to build and maintain their social networks.