Future Care Planning for Ageing Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Family Caregiver Perspectives in Thailand

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Title: Future Care Planning for Ageing Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Family Caregiver Perspectives in Thailand
Language: English
Authors: Kanokporn Vibulpatanavong (ORCID 0000-0001-8020-7818), Cheerapat Sirirak, Aporn Saardaium, Kamalaporn Sittichan
Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. 2026 39(1).
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 10
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Aging (Individuals), Long Range Planning, Intellectual Disability, Family Role, Barriers
Geographic Terms: Thailand
DOI: 10.1111/jar.70204
ISSN: 1360-2322
1468-3148
Abstract: Background: Thailand faces rapid demographic ageing and limited formal support for persons with intellectual disabilities. As this population lives longer, ageing family caregivers must prepare for future care. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine caregivers of adults with intellectual disabilities in four Thai provinces. The adults with intellectual disabilities were aged over 40 years. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis. Results: The analysis identified key themes reflecting reliance on family-based care, present-focused coping, financial insecurity, limited planning knowledge, caregiver self-care and the need for respite support. Conclusions: Most families lacked clear future care plans due to limited services, financial constraints and cultural values. While a present-focused mindset provided comfort, it often delayed planning. The findings highlight the need for stronger financial support, employment opportunities, planning resources and respite services.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1497692
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Background: Thailand faces rapid demographic ageing and limited formal support for persons with intellectual disabilities. As this population lives longer, ageing family caregivers must prepare for future care. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine caregivers of adults with intellectual disabilities in four Thai provinces. The adults with intellectual disabilities were aged over 40 years. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis. Results: The analysis identified key themes reflecting reliance on family-based care, present-focused coping, financial insecurity, limited planning knowledge, caregiver self-care and the need for respite support. Conclusions: Most families lacked clear future care plans due to limited services, financial constraints and cultural values. While a present-focused mindset provided comfort, it often delayed planning. The findings highlight the need for stronger financial support, employment opportunities, planning resources and respite services.
ISSN:1360-2322
1468-3148
DOI:10.1111/jar.70204