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Dietitians’ challenges when consulting to adults with intellectual disabilities

Päivi Adolfsson (Department of Public Health and Caring Science, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden)
Pia Ek (Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden)
Õie Umb Carlsson (Department of Public Health and Caring Science, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden)

Tizard Learning Disability Review

ISSN: 1359-5474

Article publication date: 11 October 2019

Issue publication date: 5 November 2019

409

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate registered dietitians’ (RDs) experiences in consulting to adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Sweden.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive study using a study-specific web-based questionnaire was administered, comprising both multiple-choice questions with a space for comments and open-ended questions. The open-ended answers and comments from 53 respondents were analysed with systematic text condensation.

Findings

Four categories were identified: RDs’ experiences from the first meeting; explanations for late initial contact; the actions taken by RDs; and necessary measures for more sustainable nutrition care. Ten sub-categories described the challenges that RDs experience in more detail.

Practical implications

It is necessary to provide adults with ID and their supporting staff with individually tailored nutritional information. Individuals with ID must be actively involved in lifestyle changes that affect their everyday life. The RD must be included in the interdisciplinary team supporting adults with ID. If a new practice is to be implemented, it should be compatible with the existing values of adults with ID and their staff and must be feasible to implement in the everyday life of the individual.

Originality/value

This paper identified several barriers that should be overcome in relation to the preparation of RDs for consultation with adults with ID about nutritional health issues. A systematic structure, knowledge about nutrition and knowledge about adults with ID and their living situations are needed. An assessment instrument may meet health promotion needs and facilitate longitudinal follow-ups of nutritional problems.

Keywords

Citation

Adolfsson, P., Ek, P. and Umb Carlsson, Õ. (2019), "Dietitians’ challenges when consulting to adults with intellectual disabilities", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 24 No. 4, pp. 153-162. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLDR-11-2018-0033

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited

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