by Rena Walker

This paper examines the need for social support in the lives of aging parents of adult children with developmental disabilities. The position taken is from the ontological view that the need to give and receive support is human, in contrast to the presumption that there must be proof of the need for social support in order to be seen as human. Theoretical perspectives on aging are discussed with an emphasis on the social construction of old age.

A review of empirical research on caregiving, stressors and social support follows. The literature on social support was reviewed with particular focus on a collaborative view of informal and formal supports. Emphasis on creating opportunities to develop informal supports is highlighted. The research and literature is critically discussed and has contributed to developing an understanding of increasing the quality of supports in the lives of families.

E-Mail: rena.walker@lethbridgecollege.ab.ca

 

 

International Journal of Disability, Community & Rehabilitation
Volume 4, No. 2
www.ijdcr.ca
ISSN 1703-3381
  

  
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