The Crisis Facing Older People Living with Neurodiversity and Their Aging Family Carers: A Social Work Perspective

J Gerontol Soc Work. 2021 Jul-Aug;64(5):547-556. doi: 10.1080/01634372.2021.1920537. Epub 2021 Apr 26.

Abstract

This commentary addresses barriers to care among older adults living with neurodiversity (ND), and their aging family carers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Factors contributing to inequities are described and the significant negative consequences of current policy decisions on the social and mental health of older adults with ND and their aging family carers are highlighted. The commentary calls for a collective social work response that highlights the critical role of support and advocacy necessary to redress social exclusion.

Keywords: Neurodiversity; aging; caregiving; health equity; intellectual disability; pandemic.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aging / psychology*
  • Caregivers / psychology*
  • Caregivers / standards
  • Disabled Persons / psychology
  • Disabled Persons / rehabilitation*
  • Humans
  • Pandemics / prevention & control
  • Social Work / methods