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AbstractContextPurposeMethods and resultsConclusion and implications\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONContemporary technologies, such as mainstream and specialised Assistive Technologies (ATs), are seen as effective. However, there is a noticeable gap between technological progress and the ability to customise these technologies to meet the unique needs and characteristics of neurodivergent individuals, particularly those on the Autism Spectrum and people with Intellectual Disability (pwID).The goal of this study is to investigate the present requirements and future priorities acknowledged by specialists in the field regarding the progress of social inclusion for this population, making use of ATs.A qualitative survey involving 24 international experts, and its respective thematic analysis reveals challenges in social inclusion, emphasizing communication and physical accessibility, awareness gaps, and stigma. Concurrently, issues surrounding ATs include limited access, insufficient training, and a lack of awareness and skills, with individuals, and families being inadequately involved.The study proposes strategies for overcoming these challenges, with a focus on accessibility, awareness, skills, family involvement, and customization. Identified research needs encompass scientific development, inclusive approaches, and changes in technological development paradigms.Customization and Accessibility of Assistive Technologies (ATs): The research emphasizes the critical gap between existing ATs and their alignment with the needs of people with Intellectual Disability (pwID) and those on the autism spectrum. This is crucial for rehabilitation since its effectiveness is based on the consideration of individual requirements. In this sense, the present study involves enhancing the adaptability of technologies to support varied communication styles and learning abilities, thereby promoting greater independence and participation in daily activities, also through rehabilitation.Policy and Infrastructure Development: In an innovative manner, the study points out the systemic challenges, including inadequate policies and lack of support infrastructure, that hinder the effective use of ATs. For rehabilitation practices to be impactful, there is a need for policy reform and infrastructure development that prioritizes the provision and integration of ATs into education, employment, and community living. This includes ensuring funding for AT acquisition, creating inclusive educational and work environments, and improving public spaces to accommodate the needs of pwID and on the autism spectrum.Involvement of Individuals and Families in the AT Development Process: The paper highlights the limited involvement of individuals with ID and on the autism spectrum, and their families, in the process of developing and selecting ATs. Therefore, an important implication for rehabilitation is the need to adopt a person-centred approach that actively involves these individuals and their families in decision-making processes and, whenever possible, in co-creation processes. This approach ensures that AT solutions are better suited to the users’ preferences, challenges, and daily life contexts, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of technological aids in supporting social inclusion and autonomy.Adoption of Qualitative, In-Depth Methods in AT Research: The adoption of qualitative research methods in disability and health research significantly contributes to the development of human-centred, context-driven, and personalized technologies and rehabilitation strategies.Customization and Accessibility of Assistive Technologies (ATs): The research emphasizes the critical gap between existing ATs and their alignment with the needs of people with Intellectual Disability (pwID) and those on the autism spectrum. This is crucial for rehabilitation since its effectiveness is based on the consideration of individual requirements. In this sense, the present study involves enhancing the adaptability of technologies to support varied communication styles and learning abilities, thereby promoting greater independence and participation in daily activities, also through rehabilitation.Policy and Infrastructure Development: In an innovative manner, the study points out the systemic challenges, including inadequate policies and lack of support infrastructure, that hinder the effective use of ATs. For rehabilitation practices to be impactful, there is a need for policy reform and infrastructure development that prioritizes the provision and integration of ATs into education, employment, and community living. This includes ensuring funding for AT acquisition, creating inclusive educational and work environments, and improving public spaces to accommodate the needs of pwID and on the autism spectrum.Involvement of Individuals and Families in the AT Development Process: The paper highlights the limited involvement of individuals with ID and on the autism spectrum, and their families, in the process of developing and selecting ATs. Therefore, an important implication for rehabilitation is the need to adopt a person-centred approach that actively involves these individuals and their families in decision-making processes and, whenever possible, in co-creation processes. This approach ensures that AT solutions are better suited to the users’ preferences, challenges, and daily life contexts, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of technological aids in supporting social inclusion and autonomy.Adoption of Qualitative, In-Depth Methods in AT Research: The adoption of qualitative research methods in disability and health research significantly contributes to the development of human-centred, context-driven, and personalized technologies and rehabilitation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous condition that affects development and functioning from infancy through adulthood. Efforts to parse the heterogeneity of the autism spectrum through subgroups such as Asperger's and Profound Autism have been controversial, and have consistently struggled with issues of reliability, validity, and interpretability. Nonetheless, methods for successfully identifying clinically meaningful subgroups within autism are needed to ensure that research, interventions, and services address the range of needs experienced by autistic individuals. The purpose of this study was to generate and test whether a simple set of questions, organized in a flowchart, could be used in clinical practice and research to differentiate meaningful subgroups based on individuals' level of functioning. Once generated, subgroups could also be compared to the recently proposed administrative category of Profound Autism and to groupings based on standardized adaptive measures. Ninety‐seven adults with autism or related neurodevelopmental disorders participating in a longstanding longitudinal study, or their caregivers if they could not answer for themselves, completed phone interviews when the participants were ~30 years old. Information from these phone interviews was used to generate vignettes summarizing characteristics and aspects of the daily lives of each participant (e.g., language level, vocational activities, and social relationships). Three expert clinicians then used these vignettes to classify each participant based on their level of support needs. Meaningfully distinct subgroups within the sample were identified which could be reliably distinguished from one another. Implications of such categorizations and future directions are discussed. Lay Summary: Autistic people often have difficulty living independently and need support. The type of support that they need can depend on behaviors they have that are associated with autism. It also can depend on related issues like their cognitive and language skills. We created a set of questions that can help clinicians and researchers begin to characterize different groups based on the amount of support they need, which could help individualize the types of supports autistic people receive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Methodologies for assessing behavior form the foundation of health promotion and disease prevention. Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) assessment methodologies have predominantly been developed for adults without an intellectual disability (ID), raising credibility concerns for adults with ID. The purpose was to synthesize the current state of assessment methodologies for quantifying PA and SB volume in the free-living setting for adults with an ID. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, eleven databases were searched through December 2023, yielding 8174 records. Data were extracted in Covidence (v.2.0), obtaining quantified PA and SB volume and assessment methodology characteristics across data collection and analysis, including tool(s) and technique(s) used, preparatory actions taken, instructions provided, and behavioral strategies employed during data collection. Results: Of the 8174 articles screened, 91 met the inclusion criteria. Common metrics included minutes/hours per day/week and steps per day/week. Despite 80% of the studies using objective techniques, substantial variation existed across studies regarding wearable models, sampling frequency and epoch length settings, calibration protocols, wearable placements, and data processing techniques. Limited studies provided instructions that did not exclusively rely on spoken language. Behavioral strategies varied, including self-monitoring, providing assistance or supervision, administering questionnaires verbally, issuing reminders, and offering monetary incentives. Conclusions: This review underscores the need for greater consistency and accessibility in PA and SB assessment methodology for adults with ID. Tailored preparation, instruction, and behavioral strategies may enhance assessment viability and suitability for adults with ID, with or without caregiver or researcher involvement in the free-living setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to gain insight into the facilitators, barriers, and support needs of Dutch self-employed workers when returning to work (RTW) after sick leave. Methods: Three focus groups were conducted, involving 15 Dutch self-employed workers who were on sick leave due to health problems. The transcripts were analyzed through thematic content analysis. Results: Five main themes regarding barriers, facilitators, and needs of self-employed workers to RTW were identified: autonomy, social support, client management, financial security, and information on sick leave. Having autonomy was considered a facilitator for RTW. However, the participants expressed a need formore financial support, additional guidance from occupational health professionals, and tailored information regarding RTW. Conclusions: The results of this study emphasize a need for optimizing national policy and support for self-employed workers regarding sick leave and RTW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study explores the perceptions of supported accommodation staff and their managers of the support needs of residents ageing with intellectual disabilities, and their experiences of adjusting services for this group in the context of individualised funding. Method: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 staff working in Australian supported accommodation services. Findings: Four themes emerged. The first captured the staff's limited understanding of ageing and the medicalisation of support needs. The second identified staff practices and adjustments to service provision to facilitate residents' healthy ageing. The third described staff commitment to facilitating ageing residents to age in place, and the fourth identified staff challenges and opportunities in supporting ageing residents in the context of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Conclusions: Findings may inform the development of practice guidelines and training for supported accommodation staff, protocols for intersections between disability, aged care and health sectors, and adequate policy responses to support older residents' healthy ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Hybrid working arrangements that combine remote and office work are on the rise. Although hybrid work has been associated with mental health benefits in employees, challenges in the transformation to hybrid persist particularly in public administration organizations which have been connected to a pronounced culture of presence and inadequate technical infrastructure. Further evidence on the link between hybrid working conditions and employee health is needed. To support the establishment of healthy hybrid working conditions, this study aims to identify employees' job demands, resources and support needs in public administration. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with N = 13 employees who work hybrid in public administration organizations in Northern Germany between February and May 2023. Interviewees were asked about their perceived job demands, resources, and support needs in hybrid work. The data was analyzed in a deductive-inductive approach of qualitative content analysis, primarily supported by the job demands-resources model as a theoretical framework. Results Several job demands, e.g., an increase in work and meetings, and resources such as personal freedom and responsibility, were identified in the context of hybrid work. A multitude of the reported job resources and demands relate to work organization and social relationships. The results disclose discrepancies between participants' experiences of job demands and resources, underlining the subjectivity of employees' perceptions of hybrid working conditions. Interviewees' support needs for hybrid work also varied, encompassing structural-level aspects such as increased acceptance and promotion of hybrid work in the organization as well as behavioral-level aspects, for instance, strategies and self-discipline for boundaries and structure. Conclusions This study provides a first comprehensive overview of the job demands, resources and support needs in hybrid work in public administration. This study builds an important basis for further research to understand the impact of hybrid working conditions on health-related employee outcomes. The identified support needs provide a valuable point of reference for health-promoting hybrid working conditions which public administration employers should begin establishing as early as possible in the ongoing transition to hybrid work.

Extant literature has reported the challenges and stressors caregivers of people with dementia face globally. Local realities and contexts often shape these challenges. For example, in regions of Africa where the prevalence of caregiving is increasing, beliefs about dementia and limited infrastructures create unique challenges for caregivers, potentially restricting caregivers’ capacities. Yet directions for policy, practice, and research are often informed by research conducted in regions outside of Africa or fail to account for local contexts. This scoping review seeks to understand the knowledge base on regional differences and similarities in the experiences of caregivers supporting persons with dementia in the region of Africa. The review will be guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage- framework. Five databases: Ageline, MEDLINE, Social Science Abstract, Psych-Info, and African-wide information will be searched. Citations from these databases will be subjected to two levels of screening The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) will describe and document the inclusion and exclusion process. This scoping review will improve our understanding of unique practices and pressures experienced by caregivers of persons with dementia in different localities in Africa. It will also identify support needs and knowledge gaps in the African region.

AbstractAimMethodsResultsConclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe degree to which people with intellectual and visual disabilities can use technology relies on the level of support they receive. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the relationship between the constructs effort expectancy, attitudes, and behavioural intentions of support people (i.e. relatives and healthcare professionals) regarding the use of such technologies for people with intellectual and visual disabilities. The aim of this study was to gain insight into how these constructs are connected and to explore their relationship with support person’s characteristics and the support need levels of people with intellectual and visual disabilities.In total, 186 support people from a Dutch healthcare organisation focusing on people with intellectual and visual disabilities participated in an online questionnaire. We used a regression analysis to explore how the constructs, the characteristics, and the level of support needs were related.Both effort expectancy (β = .35; t(185) = 5.04; p < .001) and attitude (β = .75; t(185) = 15.55; p < .001) of support people were related to the intention to use technologies. The effect of effort expectancy (β = .04; t(177) = .74; p = .462) on the intention to use technologies was mediated through attitude (β = .74; t(177) = 13.28; p < .001). Younger support people scored higher on attitude than older support people.Support people’s effort expectancy and attitude play a significant role in their intention to use technologies when supporting people with intellectual and visual disabilities, with attitude emerging as pivotal factor.A better understanding of the relationship between effort expectancy, attitude, and the intention to use technologies in support people may facilitate the implementation of technologies.The intentions of support people to use technologies is not related to the level of support needs of people with intellectual and visual disabilities.Younger support people have a more positive attitude towards technology for people with support needs compared to older support people.A positive attitude has a strong and positive relationship to a higher behavioural intention. Therefore, when implementing technologies, healthcare organisations should pay special attention to the attitude of support people towards the use of technologies for people with support needs.A better understanding of the relationship between effort expectancy, attitude, and the intention to use technologies in support people may facilitate the implementation of technologies.The intentions of support people to use technologies is not related to the level of support needs of people with intellectual and visual disabilities.Younger support people have a more positive attitude towards technology for people with support needs compared to older support people.A positive attitude has a strong and positive relationship to a higher behavioural intention. Therefore, when implementing technologies, healthcare organisations should pay special attention to the attitude of support people towards the use of technologies for people with support needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Relatives of patients who died after euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS) might need (specific) aftercare. We examined if and how physicians provide aftercare to bereaved relatives of patients who died after EAS, and which patient-, physician- and process characteristics are associated with providing aftercare. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted among 127 physicians (general practitioners, clinical specialists, and elderly care physicians) in the Netherlands. Associations were examined using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: Most physicians had had at least one follow-up conversation with bereaved relatives (77.2%). Clinical specialists less often provided aftercare compared to GPs. Also, aftercare was more often provided when the deceased had a cohabiting partner. Topics addressed during aftercare conversations included looking back on practical aspects of the EAS trajectory, the emotional experience of relatives during the EAS trajectory and relatives' current mental wellbeing. A minority of aftercare conversations led to referral to additional care (6.3%). Conclusion: Aftercare conversations with a physician covering a wide-range of topics are likely to be valuable for all bereaved relatives, and not just for "at risk" populations typically targeted by policies and guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Young-onset dementia (YOD) symptoms often first present in the workplace, resulting in work performance challenges and eventually loss of employment. This study aims to investigate the experiences, work values, and support needs of employees with YOD and their relatives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the experiences, work values, and support needs of (former) employees with YOD and their relatives. Subsequently, separate focus group discussions were conducted for employees and relatives to review and prioritize interview findings. Inductive thematic analysis was applied to both datasets. A total of 15 interviews (six employees; nine relatives) and four focus group discussions (ten employees; six relatives) were conducted. Six themes emerged, with five revolving around the central theme: desire to work. The other themes represent essential contributing factors, including importance of receiving a YOD diagnosis; knowledge, awareness, and understanding regarding YOD; open communication, joint decision making, and collaboration; work adjustments, involvement, and support; phasing out work and future perspectives. The findings highlight a strong desire to work post-YOD diagnosis, serving as a foundation for developing workplace support tools and guidance. This has the potential to help individuals with YOD preserve their self-confidence and identity while working within their capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hybrid working arrangements that combine remote and office work are on the rise. Although hybrid work has been associated with mental health benefits in employees, challenges in the transformation to hybrid persist particularly in public administration organizations which have been connected to a pronounced culture of presence and inadequate technical infrastructure. Further evidence on the link between hybrid working conditions and employee health is needed. To support the establishment of healthy hybrid working conditions, this study aims to identify employees' job demands, resources and support needs in public administration. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with N = 13 employees who work hybrid in public administration organizations in Northern Germany between February and May 2023. Interviewees were asked about their perceived job demands, resources, and support needs in hybrid work. The data was analyzed in a deductive-inductive approach of qualitative content analysis, primarily supported by the job demands-resources model as a theoretical framework. Results: Several job demands, e.g., an increase in work and meetings, and resources such as personal freedom and responsibility, were identified in the context of hybrid work. A multitude of the reported job resources and demands relate to work organization and social relationships. The results disclose discrepancies between participants' experiences of job demands and resources, underlining the subjectivity of employees' perceptions of hybrid working conditions. Interviewees' support needs for hybrid work also varied, encompassing structural-level aspects such as increased acceptance and promotion of hybrid work in the organization as well as behavioral-level aspects, for instance, strategies and self-discipline for boundaries and structure. Conclusions: This study provides a first comprehensive overview of the job demands, resources and support needs in hybrid work in public administration. This study builds an important basis for further research to understand the impact of hybrid working conditions on health-related employee outcomes. The identified support needs provide a valuable point of reference for health-promoting hybrid working conditions which public administration employers should begin establishing as early as possible in the ongoing transition to hybrid work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shy‐withdrawn behaviours place preschoolers at increased risk of experiencing adverse developmental outcomes. Positive teacher‐child relationships play a protective role against these negative socioemotional outcomes. This study aimed to understand, in‐depth, the beliefs, practices and support needs of preschool teachers toward shy‐withdrawn children. Thirty preschool teachers of children aged 3–5 years were interviewed, using a semistructured guide. The thematic analysis revealed that most preschool teachers were aware of the main manifestations, transactional influences and consequences of shy‐withdrawn behaviours, and of the empirically validated strategies that may be useful to modify them. However, a noteworthy proportion of participants reported misconceptions about the intentionality of shy‐withdrawn behaviours, negative emotions and inconsistent or less effective practices. Our findings highlight that strengthening pre‐service and in‐service training and providing coaching to the preschool staff may be helpful to restructure dysfunctional beliefs about shy‐withdrawn behaviours, translate developmental knowledge in evidence‐based classroom practices and enhance professionals' self‐awareness. Highlights: This study explored, in‐depth, the beliefs, practices and support needs of preschool teachers toward shy‐withdrawn children.Most of the 30 interviewed preschool teachers were aware of the main manifestations, transactional influences and consequences of shy‐withdrawn behaviours.Our findings highlight the need to strengthen teachers' training, bridging theoretical knowledge with professional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Up to 25% of people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) may binge eat which is almost 10 times as many as in the general population. Binge eating is associated with depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Moreover, binge eating may increase the risk of obesity and high blood glucose levels, both of which can accelerate the onset of complications to diabetes and death in people with T2D. Still, little is known about the experiences, needs, and preferences of people with T2D and binge eating that can inform and develop current and future treatment efforts. The aim of the study was therefore to gain in-depth insights into the experiences and biopsychosocial support needs of women and men with T2D and binge eating. Twenty semi-structured individual interviews (65% with females) were conducted and analyzed according to the methodology of Interpretive Description. Four themes were identified: (a) T2D and binge eating: Feeling trapped in a vicious circle; (b) Unwanted outcasts: Responding to continuous criticism; (c) Biomedical relief: Blaming and adjusting the body; and, (d) Silent struggles: Wanting to cease the secrecy. Pertinent to all themes were the guilt, shame, and worries about developing complications that the participants experienced when binge eating despite having T2D. Although binge eating triggered emotional distress, binge eating was at the same time a way of coping with such distress. Implications for treatment and future research are discussed, including the need to systematically assess and address binge eating in routine T2D care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The efforts of relatives in providing palliative care (PC) at home are important. Relatives take great responsibility, face many challenges and are at increased risk of poor physical and mental health. Support for these relatives is important, but they often do not receive the support they need. When PC is provided at home, the support for relatives before and after a patient's death must be improved. This study aimed to describe relatives' suggestions to improve the support from health professionals (HPs) before and after a patient's death in general PC at home. Methods: This study had a qualitative descriptive design based on the data from open‐ended questions in a survey collected from the Swedish Register of Palliative Care. The respondents were adult relatives involved in general PC at home across Sweden. The textual data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The analysis identified four themes: (1) seeking increased access to HPs, (2) needing enhanced information, (3) desiring improved communication and (4) requesting individual support. Conclusions: It is important to understand and address how the support to relatives may be improved to reduce the unmet needs of relatives. The findings of this study offer some concrete suggestions for improvement on ways to support relatives. Further research should focus on tailored support interventions so that HPs can provide optimal support for relatives before and after a patient's death when PC is provided at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThe perinatal period is a time of increased vulnerability regarding maternal mental health status. Although guidelines and policies have been published for perinatal mental health disorders (PMHDs) screening in China, the knowledge, attitudes, and support needs of nurses and midwives toward implementing mental health screening programs during pregnancy remain unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the knowledge of PMHDs, attitudes and support needs related to implementing mental health screening during pregnancy among obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) nurses and midwives in the central region of China while identifying the related influencing factors.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in 14 cities in Hubei, China, using convenience sampling from July to October 2023. The Chinese version of the Perinatal Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire, the Chinese version of the Perinatal Mental Health Attitudes Scale, and the Health Care Facilities Support Needs Scale were used to investigate the PMHDs knowledge, attitudes, and support needs of OB/GYN nurses and midwives, respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed, with a p-value of

Abstract Background Advancements in genetic testing have led to Usher syndrome now being diagnosed at a much earlier age than in the past, enabling the provision of early intervention and support to children and families. Despite these developments, anecdotal reports suggest there are substantial gaps in the services and supports provided to parents of children with Usher syndrome. The current study investigated the support needs of parents of children with Usher syndrome Type 1 when their child was aged 0 to 5 years. Method Purposive sampling was used, and six semi-structured interviews were conducted with Australian parents of children with Usher syndrome, Type 1. Data was analysed using modified reflexive thematic analysis. Results Four key themes were identified as being central to the support needs of parents of children with Usher syndrome aged 0 to 5 years. (1) Social Needs referred to parents’ need for various sources of social support, (2) Informational Needs described the lack of information parents received regarding Usher syndrome from treating professionals, (3) Practical Needs included supports needed to assist parents in managing the day-to-day tasks of caring for a child with a disability, and (4) Emotional Needs represented the emotional support (both formal and informal) that parents needed to be a positive support to their child. Conclusions Findings provide rich information for relevant support groups, policy makers, individual healthcare professionals, and professional governing bodies regarding the education of stakeholders and the development and implementation of best-practice treatment guidelines.

Gebrezabher Niguse Hailu,1 Muntaha Abdelkader,1 Hailemariam Atsbeha Meles,2 Tesfay Teklu1 1Department of Nursing, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigrai Region, Ethiopia; 2Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigrai Region, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Gebrezabher Niguse Hailu, P.O.Box: 231, Tel +251991235149, Email gerigereking12@gmail.comBackground: As the global population ages, the demand for family caregivers is expected to increase, underscoring the necessity to comprehend their support needs and challenges they face. However, caregiving often comes with various challenges and support needs that require attention. This study was aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the support needs and challenges faced by family caregivers who provide care to their elderly loved ones at home.Methods: The study was conducted in Mekelle City, Ethiopia from December 2022 to October 2023 using a phenomenology study design and purposive sampling technique. A total of twenty-two in-depth interviews were conducted using an open-ended guide. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, entered into ATLAS.ti8 software, translated, and analyzed using a thematic analysis.Results: The study found that family caregivers face communication, financial, medication management, and transportation challenges in caring for elderly relatives at home. It also highlighted several key support needs of family caregivers in the care of elderly relatives at home. These includes financial assistance, training, access to information, and support from healthcare professionals.Limitations: Qualitative research, by its nature, is subjective as it relies on the perceptions and interpretations of the participants. Moreover, in qualitative studies, researchers typically work with a limited number of participants, in qualitative studies, researchers typically work with a limited number of participants, resulting in conclusions that may not reflect the experiences of all family caregivers.Conclusion: This qualitative study underscored the multitude of challenges faced by family caregivers in their role as primary caregivers for elderly relatives. The research also highlighted the pressing need for support systems that would address the physical, emotional, financial, and informational needs of these caregivers.Keywords: family caregivers, older adults, support needs, challenges, home care, qualitative study

Caregivers of children with neurodiverse needs are known to experience challenges and hardship due to the increased needs of the child and the lack of support available. This study aimed to explore the support needs and well-being of caregivers of children with neurodiverse needs in Australia. Sixty-six caregivers participated in an online survey asking questions about support needs. The results highlighted five main themes that caregivers commonly experienced including: barriers to community engagement, impact on close relationships, negative impact on mental health and identity, financial hardship, and identified support needs. Findings identified multiple unmet needs existing amongst caregivers and further emphasises the importance of addressing these needs to improve the quality of life of caregivers of children with neurodiverse needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual violence and abuse (SVA) is highly prevalent globally, has devastating and wide-ranging effects on victim-survivors, and demands the provision of accessible specialist support services. In the UK, Rape Crisis England & Wales (RCEW), a voluntary third sector organization, is the main provider of specialist SVA services. Understanding the profile of victim-survivors who are referred to RCEW and their referral outcomes is important for the effective allocation of services. Using administrative data collected by three Rape Crisis Centres in England between April 2016 and March 2020, this study used multinomial regression analysis to examine the determinants of victim-survivors' referral outcomes, controlling for a wide range of potentially confounding variables. The findings demonstrate that support needs, more so than the type of abuse experienced, predicted whether victim-survivors were engaged with services. Particularly, the presence of mental health, substance misuse and social, emotional, and behavioral needs were important for referral outcomes. The referral source also influenced referral outcomes, and there were some differences according to demographic characteristics and socioeconomic factors. The research was co-produced with stakeholders from RCEW, who informed interpretation of these findings. That victim-survivors' engagement with services was determined by their support needs, over and above demographic characteristics or the type of abuse they had experienced, demonstrates the needs-led approach to service provision adopted by RCEW, whereby resources are allocated effectively to those who need them most. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advancements in genetic testing have led to Usher syndrome now being diagnosed at a much earlier age than in the past, enabling the provision of early intervention and support to children and families. Despite these developments, anecdotal reports suggest there are substantial gaps in the services and supports provided to parents of children with Usher syndrome. The current study investigated the support needs of parents of children with Usher syndrome Type 1 when their child was aged 0 to 5 years. Method: Purposive sampling was used, and six semi-structured interviews were conducted with Australian parents of children with Usher syndrome, Type 1. Data was analysed using modified reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Four key themes were identified as being central to the support needs of parents of children with Usher syndrome aged 0 to 5 years. (1) Social Needs referred to parents' need for various sources of social support, (2) Informational Needs described the lack of information parents received regarding Usher syndrome from treating professionals, (3) Practical Needs included supports needed to assist parents in managing the day-to-day tasks of caring for a child with a disability, and (4) Emotional Needs represented the emotional support (both formal and informal) that parents needed to be a positive support to their child. Conclusions: Findings provide rich information for relevant support groups, policy makers, individual healthcare professionals, and professional governing bodies regarding the education of stakeholders and the development and implementation of best-practice treatment guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adulthood autism diagnosis has become increasingly common, but little is known about post-diagnosis support experiences and needs. We interviewed 19 autistic adults and 4 support persons on experiences of formal and informal post-diagnosis support. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify themes. Participants reported difficulties accessing suitable formal support, especially regarding education and employment. Informal support was helpful but created challenges in the relationships between autistic adults and support persons. For autistic adults, support from autistic peers fostered belonging and self-acceptance. We also identified complex interactions between adults' post-diagnosis identity development and support experiences as they resolved the dilemma between self-acceptance and a desire to change. Findings have important implications for services working with autistic adults and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Relatives of patients who died after euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS) might need (specific) aftercare. We examined if and how physicians provide aftercare to bereaved relatives of patients who died after EAS, and which patient-, physician- and process characteristics are associated with providing aftercare.Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted among 127 physicians (general practitioners, clinical specialists, and elderly care physicians) in the Netherlands. Associations were examined using multivariable logistic regression analyses.Results: Most physicians had had at least one follow-up conversation with bereaved relatives (77.2%). Clinical specialists less often provided aftercare compared to GPs. Also, aftercare was more often provided when the deceased had a cohabiting partner. Topics addressed during aftercare conversations included looking back on practical aspects of the EAS trajectory, the emotional experience of relatives during the EAS trajectory and relatives’ current mental wellbeing. A minority of aftercare conversations led to referral to additional care (6.3%).Conclusion: Aftercare conversations with a physician covering a wide-range of topics are likely to be valuable for all bereaved relatives, and not just for “at risk” populations typically targeted by policies and guidelines.

Abstract Background Young adult caregivers (YACs, aged 18–25) who take care of a loved one may juggle between caregiving responsibilities and other life areas such as education and social life, leading to an imbalance in their lives. The web-based tool ‘MantelzorgBalans’ aims to support informal caregivers (ICGs) in balancing caregiving tasks and activities in other life areas. However, this tool was designed to support ICGs of loved ones receiving palliative care and is not yet tailored to the needs of YACs. In order to do so, in this study we aim to explore (i) challenges and support needs of YACs in caregiving, (ii) their needs towards the content of the ‘MantelzorgBalans’ tool, and (iii) issues they encountered in using the tool and their preferences for adaptation of the tool. Method We conducted semi-structured interviews and usability testing with 13 student YACs in the Netherlands. Within usability testing, we used three approaches: (i) a thinking-aloud approach (verbalizing thoughts while using the tool), (ii) a task-based performance approach (scoring task completion rate), and (iii) questionnaires. We used thematic analysis to synthesize the qualitative data. For the quantitative data, we calculated frequencies and mean scores. Results Our findings suggest that the majority of YACs faced challenges in balancing caregiving with life areas such as education and social life. They needed support from healthcare professionals who could listen to them without judging them. With respect to the MantelzorgBalans tool, YACs needed more information on how to provide emotional support to their loved one and the emotional support that is available for them. In regards to the aesthetics, they preferred bright colours and more visuals in the tool. Overall, they were satisfied with the information presented in the tool, but they were neutral in their willingness to use it in the future. Conclusion From this study, we learn that YACs may experience specific challenges and needs in general, and towards a web-based tool in specific. In the near future, it will be important to develop digital tools to support YACs that match their specific needs. This may enable healthcare professionals to offer targeted and personalized digital support to YACs in future.

People with disability face heightened vulnerability during disasters due to functional limitations and inadequate support. This study explores disaster preparedness, capabilities, and support needs among Australians with disability. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, aligned with the Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP) framework: a co-designed and tested framework that helps people with disability assess their capabilities, identify their needs, communicate with others, and plan for different emergency scenarios. Data collection involved self-administered online surveys and interviewer-administered telephone surveys through convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics and regression modelling were employed for data analysis. Of the 138 respondents, most were female (68.1%) and aged 60–69 (23.9%). While 60.3% had emergency plans, motivators included enhancing survival chances (36.7%) and past disaster experiences (22.7%). Barriers included uncertainty about preparation (22.0%) and difficulty obtaining information (11.3%). Those perceiving bushfire risk were more likely to have a plan (p = 0.004), while individuals living alone were less likely (p = 0.019). Common preparedness actions included safely storing important documents (57.5%), but fewer had backup plans for support workers (9.2%) or home generators (9.7%). Respondents with disaster experience highlighted diverse support needs, encompassing health, emotional well-being, and practical assistance. Inclusive disaster risk reduction should involve individuals with disability in assessing their capabilities and support requirements. This study underscores the necessity of tailored emergency preparedness measures to safeguard the well-being of this demographic.

Background/Objectives: Methodologies for assessing behavior form the foundation of health promotion and disease prevention. Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) assessment methodologies have predominantly been developed for adults without an intellectual disability (ID), raising credibility concerns for adults with ID. The purpose was to synthesize the current state of assessment methodologies for quantifying PA and SB volume in the free-living setting for adults with an ID. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, eleven databases were searched through December 2023, yielding 8174 records. Data were extracted in Covidence (v.2.0), obtaining quantified PA and SB volume and assessment methodology characteristics across data collection and analysis, including tool(s) and technique(s) used, preparatory actions taken, instructions provided, and behavioral strategies employed during data collection. Results: Of the 8174 articles screened, 91 met the inclusion criteria. Common metrics included minutes/hours per day/week and steps per day/week. Despite 80% of the studies using objective techniques, substantial variation existed across studies regarding wearable models, sampling frequency and epoch length settings, calibration protocols, wearable placements, and data processing techniques. Limited studies provided instructions that did not exclusively rely on spoken language. Behavioral strategies varied, including self-monitoring, providing assistance or supervision, administering questionnaires verbally, issuing reminders, and offering monetary incentives. Conclusions: This review underscores the need for greater consistency and accessibility in PA and SB assessment methodology for adults with ID. Tailored preparation, instruction, and behavioral strategies may enhance assessment viability and suitability for adults with ID, with or without caregiver or researcher involvement in the free-living setting.

Background: Family caregivers of people with motor neurone disease (MND) experience adverse health outcomes as a result of their caregiving experience. This may be alleviated if their support needs are identified and addressed in a systematic and timely manner. The objective of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility and relevance of the Carers' Alert Thermometer (CAT) in home-based care, from the perspective of MND family caregivers. The tool provides a formal structure to facilitate discussions with caregivers to enable needs to be addressed. Methods: This mixed-method study was conducted in Western Australia (2020–2021). Forty-one caregivers and five MND Advisors participated in trialling the CAT intervention which consisted of two encounters with Advisors (6–8 weeks apart) to identify and address support needs through action plans. Caregivers' feedback was obtained via telephone interviews and a thematic analysis was undertaken. Results: Thirty caregivers completed two CAT assessments. Caregivers identified support priorities of managing their feelings and worries, providing emotional or spiritual care, information about the person's condition and how their care needs might change. Seventeen caregivers were interviewed and found that this assessment process adequately addressed their needs and it should be continued, it brought the focus onto them to clarify problems and work through solutions. The improvements that were suggested by them, including better information/education in palliative care, led to the development of an online support/information toolkit, which served to empower caregivers and staff by accessing relevant information and resources. Conclusions: The CAT demonstrated utility for triaging caregivers most in need of additional support and those whom signposting to additional information and self-directed access to support was most appropriate. For any tool to become an integrated part of care, service provider support is key for implementation, allowing for the time resource required and an appropriate education and support structure. MND Associations have an important role in building stronger partnerships with supportive community networks, through compassionate communities models of care, to address the identified needs of MND families in a more sustainable and wholistic manner. Needs assessment is a means towards building this capacity between formal and informal networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Young adult caregivers (YACs, aged 18–25) who take care of a loved one may juggle between caregiving responsibilities and other life areas such as education and social life, leading to an imbalance in their lives. The web-based tool 'MantelzorgBalans' aims to support informal caregivers (ICGs) in balancing caregiving tasks and activities in other life areas. However, this tool was designed to support ICGs of loved ones receiving palliative care and is not yet tailored to the needs of YACs. In order to do so, in this study we aim to explore (i) challenges and support needs of YACs in caregiving, (ii) their needs towards the content of the 'MantelzorgBalans' tool, and (iii) issues they encountered in using the tool and their preferences for adaptation of the tool. Method: We conducted semi-structured interviews and usability testing with 13 student YACs in the Netherlands. Within usability testing, we used three approaches: (i) a thinking-aloud approach (verbalizing thoughts while using the tool), (ii) a task-based performance approach (scoring task completion rate), and (iii) questionnaires. We used thematic analysis to synthesize the qualitative data. For the quantitative data, we calculated frequencies and mean scores. Results: Our findings suggest that the majority of YACs faced challenges in balancing caregiving with life areas such as education and social life. They needed support from healthcare professionals who could listen to them without judging them. With respect to the MantelzorgBalans tool, YACs needed more information on how to provide emotional support to their loved one and the emotional support that is available for them. In regards to the aesthetics, they preferred bright colours and more visuals in the tool. Overall, they were satisfied with the information presented in the tool, but they were neutral in their willingness to use it in the future. Conclusion: From this study, we learn that YACs may experience specific challenges and needs in general, and towards a web-based tool in specific. In the near future, it will be important to develop digital tools to support YACs that match their specific needs. This may enable healthcare professionals to offer targeted and personalized digital support to YACs in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Mexico, colorectal cancer ranks first in mortality and is considered the third most frequent type of cancer. Colorectal cancer patients face challenges in adjusting to their daily lives and activities as symptoms increase significantly from onset, during, and after treatment. Physical and emotional problems resulting from cancer diagnosis and treatment generate support needs throughout the cancer trajectory, which may be associated with decreased quality of life. Currently in Mexico there are few qualitative studies on the needs of patients with colorectal cancer. A phenomenological analysis helps us study experiences as they occur and how people experience them, and could help us understand patients' reactions, feelings, and experiences to changes in cancer diagnosis and treatment, and thus way to provide specific care to the needs they present. The study aimed to investigate the experiences faced by colorectal cancer patients during the diagnosis and treatment process and to identify the support needs required. Qualitative research was carried out with a phenomenological approach which tries to describe the experience without trying to give causal explanations. From this model, people are considered as active, thinking, and responsible for their actions, it considers that people are naturally good and that they seek to achieve positive goals. This model considers that the person cannot be understood unless he perceives the world through her eyes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The interviews lasted 30 to 50 minutes, were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim by a collaborator. The transcripts were analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis involving content analysis by categories. The study was approved by the Local Committee for Research and Ethics in Health Research of the Hospital de Alta Especialidad (R-2016-1901-89), which provides tertiary care to patients diagnosed with cancer in which patients receive the cancer treatment of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The results show two main themes that emerged in the analysis: changes and support needs during diagnosis and treatment. The changes experienced by patients during diagnosis and treatment are mainly emotional, such as sadness and fear, for which they used different coping strategies such as thinking about their family and spiritual aspects; social and family as adjustments in their activities of daily living, physical related to surgery, stoma and chemotherapy as treatment received, which were accompanied by psychological discomfort. A restructuring of the cancer process was also noted as a positive experience. Other support needs were the lack of information on psychological and family care and on the effects of diagnosis and treatment. The study has limitations, the design was descriptive and exploratory, so it is recommended to carry out a follow-up that allows reviewing the experiences of the patients over time and during the trajectory of the cancer. It is also important to explore the experiences of family members and professionals to obtain a broader view of the phenomenon of the cancer process in its different actors. However, the study is considered valuable due to the information obtained directly from the patient's experience, showing that the changes they experience are emotional, social, family, coping and physical in relation to surgery, stoma and chemotherapy, as well as, the restructuring of the cancer process. Unsatisfied support needs are also shown, such as the lack of information on psychological and family care and on diagnosis, treatment and its side effects. Psychosocial interventions are suggested according to the specific changes that occur in patients, the unmet support needs and the different moments of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of a narrative review of the literature on the realities of LGBTQ + people with intellectual disabilities (ID). Twelve papers were analyzed. The data were extracted and interpreted through the lens of Honneth’s recognition theory. This review shows that more situations of contempt are experienced by LGBTQ + people with ID than situations of recognition. Experiences of violence, infantilization and discrimination, among others, are reported by those who participated in the surveyed studies. The analysis of the results made it possible to better understand their reality and to make recommendations. In particular, it is suggested that sex education programs for persons with ID be optimized so that issues relating to sexual diversity and gender plurality are addressed. It is also necessary to equip carers to increase their openness and comfort level in addressing these issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Childhood cancer affects approximately 2000 children annually in Germany, and there is an increasing number of long‐term childhood cancer survivors. Due to developmental tasks, adolescent survivors in long‐term follow‐up (LTFU) care may face specific challenges and perceive different burden due to their disease. The current study explored (a) the impact of cancer and burden regarding survivorship and (b) supportive needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care. Methods: Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care aged 14–18 years (average age 16.4 years). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis. Results: Based on the exploratory research questions, two key categories were generated: (1) The impact and burden on survivors' lives during LTFU care and (2) support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care. The four subcategories that emerged regarding the impact and burden on survivors' lives during LTFU care were (1) physical consequences, (2) cognitive impairments, (3) difficulties in social interactions, and (4) psychosocial burden. Additionally, two subcategories, (1) practical and (2) emotional support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors were identified. Conclusions: Our results indicate that childhood cancer influences adolescent survivors' life in a negative way even many years after the end of treatment. Furthermore, parents seem to play a crucial role in the survivorship experience of childhood cancer survivors, as they remain keep responsible for most cancer‐related concerns even during LTFU care, causing adolescents to persist in the child role. A family systemic approach to care is suggested to facilitate development‐specific tasks and to enable adolescents to become autonomous adults. Still, the question remains as to who in the health care system could take over the family systemic tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When families transition out of the Australian Defence Force, they can experience a range of challenges that pose risks to their mental health and wellbeing. These may be further complicated by a lack of access to services and low uptake of existing support. While some research has investigated the experiences of previously serving men and women, the support needs of their children have received little empirical attention. This article reports on a qualitative study that explored the experiences of young people who are now adults, when their parents left the Australian Defence Force. Themes developed included gaps in defence and civilian support, inadequate school support, military stigma and receptiveness to support, and ideas for improving strategies and support. Findings were analysed using a thematic approach, and then a socioecological lens was applied, highlighting the multilevel support needs as well as the significant service gaps experienced by young people during the military–civilian transition. IMPLICATIONS Understanding young people's experiences when their parents leave the Australian Defence Force can help social workers and other disciplines appropriately address their support needs through research and practice. Engagement and service provision efforts should consider the multilevel systems that protect young people from experiencing critical or long-term impacts. They should recognise the role of young people's agency, acknowledging that experiences during the military–civilian transition are not homogenous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Participation in work during school is a known predictor of postsecondary employment for transition-age youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Recent research has demonstrated the benefits of work on skill development in major life domains. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of customized employment on the support needs of youth with IDD with a significant disability compared to those receiving treatment as usual. Findings indicated significant increases in independence in three specific domains for the treatment group versus control on the Supports Intensity Scale—Adult Version, including Home Living, Employment, and Protection and Advocacy. Findings suggest a therapeutic effect of work activities on growth and development in important life domains. Implications for future research, policy, and practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with disability face heightened vulnerability during disasters due to functional limitations and inadequate support. This study explores disaster preparedness, capabilities, and support needs among Australians with disability. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, aligned with the Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP) framework: a co-designed and tested framework that helps people with disability assess their capabilities, identify their needs, communicate with others, and plan for different emergency scenarios. Data collection involved self-administered online surveys and interviewer-administered telephone surveys through convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics and regression modelling were employed for data analysis. Of the 138 respondents, most were female (68.1%) and aged 60–69 (23.9%). While 60.3% had emergency plans, motivators included enhancing survival chances (36.7%) and past disaster experiences (22.7%). Barriers included uncertainty about preparation (22.0%) and difficulty obtaining information (11.3%). Those perceiving bushfire risk were more likely to have a plan (p = 0.004), while individuals living alone were less likely (p = 0.019). Common preparedness actions included safely storing important documents (57.5%), but fewer had backup plans for support workers (9.2%) or home generators (9.7%). Respondents with disaster experience highlighted diverse support needs, encompassing health, emotional well-being, and practical assistance. Inclusive disaster risk reduction should involve individuals with disability in assessing their capabilities and support requirements. This study underscores the necessity of tailored emergency preparedness measures to safeguard the well-being of this demographic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to develop effective mentoring programme, it is important to identify the needs of the nurse mentors. A lot has been documented about the needs of the nurse mentees, however, there is a dearth of recent literature finding the support needs of the nurse mentors. The aim of this integrative review was to synthesize the literature on the support needs of the nurse mentors in their mentoring role. The search was steered across Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature; Direct of Open Access Journals; Google Scholar, PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, and SCOPUS, in order to identify challenges and support that need to provide to the nurse mentors in their mentoring role. The Medical Subject Headings according to National Library of Medicine was used to search for the key concepts. Key search concepts were entered into the query box on the main PubMed page and searched. The search details page was check to determine how PubMed processed the search. The same concepts were used on the database to search for the articles which were included in this review. Seven subthemes, twenty categories were identified and classified into two main themes: Challenges to effective mentoring; Support needed by the nurse mentors. The review identifies challenges faced by nurse mentors and concludes that they need support. This study suggests that policy makers should make a concerted effort by availing resources for mentoring role. Workshops to equip mentors and collaboration between different stakeholders might help to enhance the support of the nurse mentors. Future research should analyse collaboration in support of the nurse mentors in their mentoring role

Abstract Aim When a public health emergency occurs, nurses play an important role on the front lines and experience tremendous physical and mental stress. This review aims to synthesize existing qualitative studies exploring the psychological impact and support needs of nurses. Design Qualitative systematic reviews. Registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021288509). Methods This review uses the PEOD framework to explicitly identify qualitative questions and systematically searches four electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsychINFO) for articles published between 25 March 2000 and 27 December 2020. Results A total of 10 studies published in English from 2005 to 2020 were included in the review. Following the quality critical appraisal, 26 concepts were extracted and six descriptive themes were synthesized into three analytical themes: (1) positive psychological drive, (2) need more formal supports and (3) need to be treated fairly. During sudden public health incidents, it is crucial to provide support to family members, offer psychological counselling and isolation training to nurses, while considering cultural factors and appropriate methods. Organizations and governments should prioritize establishing a robust and effective psychological support system.

Objectives Family members have a significant role in caregiving for older patients with cancer. These caregivers are exposed to a significant caregiving burden. Therefore, it is necessary to support them. In this regard, it is important to know their needs. The present study aimed to explore the support needs of family caregivers of older patients with cancer in Iran. Methods & Materials This descriptive qualitative study was conducted during 2020–2022. Thirty-one participants including family caregivers of older patients with cancer, family members of family caregivers, and healthcare providers were purposefully recruited from healthcare centers in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews until data saturation. Data analysis was performed using Graneheim and Lundman’s content analysis method. Lincoln and Guba’s criteria were used to evaluate the trustworthiness of the data. Results The analysis led to the identification of six main themes, including the need for informational support, the need for physical support, the need to get rid of psychological insecurity, the need for improve spirituality, the need for practical support and the need for the help of a care team. Conclusion Considering the multiple support needs of family caregivers of older patients with cancer in Iran, policymakers, healthcare planners, and healthcare providers should design and implement various interventions based on these needs by using a caregiver-centered approach to support these caregivers.

Recent studies have noted a rising prevalence of common mental health issues, including suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors, among college students globally. However, limited attention has been given to the preparedness of educational institutions in addressing these concerns. This study aims to comprehensively assess the landscape of mental health support within Indonesian universities, with a particular focus on uncovering the availability of policies and training as well as faculty members’ perceptions of students’ mental health challenges, the identification of responsible parties for providing assistance, and the specific support needs of faculty members prior to the pandemic. Employing a mixed exploratory method, the research engaged 172 faculty members from 72 universities in Indonesia who completed an online survey. The quantitative data underwent descriptive analysis, while the free-text responses were thematically categorized. The findings revealed that (1) most universities still lack formal policies on dealing with students in psychological distress; (2) there is a gap between faculty members’ willingness to discuss students’ mental health and their decision to refer students to mental health services; and (3) there is a necessity for building a multi-layered support system for this issue. Hence, universities are advised to proactively institute formal policies to address students in psychological distress, implement comprehensive mental health training for both students and faculty, and enhance the accessibility of professional psychological support services, thereby creating a robust framework for promoting and safeguarding the mental well-being of students.

We examined stigma towards vignette characters representing diverse autistic characteristics (social, non-speaking, or repetitive interests or restricted behaviors; RIRB) among 259 South Korean and 240 American participants (age range = 18 ~ 74). Within each domain, participants were randomized to read a vignette depicting low or high support needs. Koreans reported greater stigma towards autistic characteristics and less awareness of and support for the neurodiversity movement than Americans. Autistic characters' support needs and rater characteristics (autism knowledge, neurodiversity endorsement, and contact quantity) predicted stigma in at least one domain, and after accounting for these variables, participants' nationality was suggestively associated only with stigma towards social characteristics and RIRB. Findings highlight the need for culturally adapted-training that provides contact with diverse autistic people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Project SEARCH is a one-year school-to-work transition program that prepares students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for competitive employment. OBJECTIVE: The current study used a mixed-method explanatory design to examine Project SEARCH graduates' overall experience of transitioning from Project SEARCH to employment, their long-term employment outcomes, and their support needs during and after the program. METHOD: Parents of 31 Project SEARCH graduates completed an online survey regarding the graduates' outcomes and 9 parents agreed to participate in a follow-up interview. RESULTS: Respondents reported positive employment outcomes for 24 of the Project SEARCH graduates (77.4% employed after Project SEARCH), primarily in the customer service industry. CONCLUSION: The graduates were satisfied with their employment but also experienced difficulties and a need for additional employment preparation and support after Project SEARCH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the self-reported impact of children's psychiatric disorders on their siblings and assesses what forms of support such children most value. We used a qualitative research design with open interviews to stimulate children between 8 and 15 years old to talk about their experiences living with a brother or sister with a psychiatric disorder. Their stories were analysed within a hermeneutic phenomenological framework in order to identify narrative themes and interpret the meaning of shared experiences. From our analysis, nine shared narrative themes emerge. Overall, siblings report feeling conflicted about adapting their lives to their brother's or sister's disorder and signal a need for personalized attention from parents. They also indicate that being involved in the care for their brother or sister helps them to better understand their behaviour. Finally, siblings reveal that, in their experience, formal, protocolized forms of support foreground family problems and stress. Thus, we recommend to involve children in the care process; to acknowledge their personal needs and conflicts; and to be mindful of the style of support: help offered in an informal or playful way, instead of formal and protocolized, could be a more effective way of meeting siblings' needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construct of support needs has become a key aspect for the diagnostics, classification, and interventional management of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, instruments specifically designed to assess support needs in this population are not available. Currently, the Supports Intensity Scale for Children (SIS-C), which could be administered to assess students with any type of intellectual disability (ID), is the only valid tool able to assess support needs in Spain. Our aim was to verify whether the SIS-C is useful for assessing the support needs of students with ASD, regardless of whether or not they present ID. The participants were subdivided into two groups. One group included students with ASD and ID (n = 248), and the other comprised participants with ASD without an ID (n = 44). The results of the two groups were compared with those reported in the original validation sample of the SIS-C, which involved participants with ID without ASD (n = 566). The results showed that this scale could be useful for assessing support needs in the three subgroups, but it appeared that different standardized norms based on the characteristics of each specific population would be appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the need to reinforce the reading learning of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in general education classrooms. A standardized way of assessing support needs in reading (SNr) from the teachers' perspective is proposed. The objectives were (i) to develop an instrument and evaluate its properties and (ii) to preliminarily assess the support needs in reading of students with IDD. Participants were 86 Chilean elementary school teachers who responded about the support needs of their own students. The instrument assesses three dimensions (i.e., representation, engagement, and action and expression). Analyses showed excellent preliminary evidence of validity and reliability. Preliminarily identified support needs suggest that students need more support in representation. Practical and research implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an integrated analysis of the quality of life and support needs of adults with intellectual disabilities in Chile. Convenience sampling was used, consisting of 93 participants with intellectual disabilities between 18 and 39 years old. The results showed that people with intellectual disabilities have greater support needs in the dimension of health and safety activities, and lower needs in the dimension of lifelong learning activities. Additionally, it was observed that quality of life indicators are diminished compared to expected values. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: To explore and describe the enactment of user involvement and combined care in a Danish clinic that aimed at providing integrated diabetes and mental health care. Design: An ethnographic study. Data Sources and Methods: Data consisted of field notes from 96 hours of participant observations and field notes from 32 informal conversations with healthcare providers, users and relatives as well as 12 semistructured interviews with users. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis. This study reports to the SRQR guidelines. Results: Treatment was not combined as intended if only one healthcare provider handled the consultations. Here, the healthcare providers' focus was often on their own area of expertise—either mental health or diabetes. If more than one healthcare provider handled consultations, the consultations were often divided between them, focussing on one condition at the time. Healthcare providers noted, that learning from peer colleagues was a way to increase the possibility for combined care. Furthermore, combined care was highly dependent on the healthcare providers' ability to involve users' illness experiences in their own care planning. Here, a high level of user involvement increased the levels of combined care during consultations. Conclusion: This study set out to explore and describe user involvement and combined care in a specialised diabetes and mental health outpatient clinic. Combined care is complexed and requires that healthcare providers are well‐equipped to manage the complexity of delivering care for people with both conditions. The degree of combined care was linked with the healthcare providers' ability to involve users and their knowledge on the condition outside there are of expertise. Relevance to Clinical Practice: A peer‐learning environment in combination with clinical guidelines and joint display could support healthcare providers in involving users in own care and when delivering care outside their area of expertise. Public contribution: No patient or public contribution. Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the original user council withdraw their consent to participate due to health‐related worries and anxiety concerning the pandemic. The user council consisted of three members diagnosed with diabetes and severe mental illness. They were invited to participate in physical meetings, phone or online meetings. Presenting findings from the study to the study participants were also hindered by the second lockdown. This influenced the possibility for data triangulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]