Abstract  

Title: Factors affecting participation for adults with intellectual disabilities

A scoping review of how participation is defined and accommodated in Sweden

Examinator: Mats Granlund

Supervisor: Karl Hedman

Background: The concept of participation is dealt with in the Swedish legislation for professions that treat people in the Act on support and service to certain disabled people (LSS) and means that the individual must be assured of good living conditions. The support must be adapted to the individual needs of the recipient and designed so that it is easily accessible to the people who need it and contributes to their ability to live an independent life. Support for participation is found in legislation, but investigating factors that affect participation in practice for a target group with varying care and support feels justified in order to create an in-depth knowledge of the subject.

Purpose: The purpose of the essay is an in-depth study of the concept of participation and how adults with intellectual disabilities who need communication aids are provided with participation in Sweden. The study aims to investigate and identify factors that influence participation.

Method: The study was conducted as a scoping review where data collection consisted of a literature review that included both qualitative and quantitative research sources. A thematic analysis highlights patterns in the material, knowledge gaps, and suggestions for further research.

Results: Organization, leadership and personnel lack a clear definition of the concept of participation. The housing situation affects mental well-being where the staff's attitude to abilities and resources affects the right to participation. It becomes clear that it is only in contact with others that participation for adults with intellectual disabilities is created, therefore it is important that there is a good cooperation among the actors around the user. Competence development can be seen at all levels, both within the exercise of authority and healthcare staff. Particular deficiencies in communication aids emerge, which is an important tool for these individuals who have need of help with communication.

Conclusion: The target group is not homogeneous and have varying and complex needs. More knowledge is requested to meet the needs of the target group and provide adequate support in communication and collaboration. A uniform definition of the term would lead to increased conditions for participation for adults with intellectual disabilities.