Lessons from a Global Pandemic (2023)

This research report examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the delivery of care and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health disorders. The study gathered perspectives from providers, caregivers, and family members through a mixed-methods approach involving online surveys and a literature review.

Key findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing gaps in service, support, and treatment for this population. Challenges included fear, isolation, uncertainty, disruptions to routines, and limited access to healthcare. However, the pandemic also spurred the adoption of alternative solutions like telehealth, highlighting the need for adaptable and effective policies and procedures.

The report offers recommendations for future research, including expanding the geographic scope to include Asian countries, incorporating demographic markers like gender and age, and involving self-advocates as participants. It also suggests practical measures for improving care and support during crises, such as adapting telehealth, maintaining in-person intake practices, developing public health campaigns, creating online resource portals, and establishing systematic support guidelines.

Gentile, J., Farr, J., McGill, K., Blumberg, R., & Rivera, S. (2023). Lessons from a global pandemic: What have we learned? The National Association for the Dually Diagnosed.