Abstract
Background: This study is part of a wider research project aiming to identify meaningful life indicators for people with learning disabilities (LD) supported by a disability service provider. The study aims to inform the improvement of disability service provision by understanding the perspectives of people with LD. These perspectives inform the development and application of quality of life measures to gain insight and improve meaning life outcomes for the individual.
Aim: To identify and build an understanding of meaningful life indicators for people with LD.
Sample: Six individuals with LD living at residences supported by a non-profit community living service provider.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive design to explore the experiences of people with learning disabilities in a residential support setting about their perspectives on quality of life. Data collection was undertaken using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis resulted in a synthesis of the findings.
Findings: The three themes that were identified from the data are interconnected and illustrate the key priorities shared by the study participants. The first theme refers to the need to make a meaningful contribution which is informed by the second someone to talk to or laugh with. The final theme focuses on individualised needs.
Conclusion: This study explored the priorities of people with LD, to identify indicators of what makes a meaningful life. The study found that people with LD seek to develop skills to then share with others. This created a sense of value for themselves and built connections to their community and wider society. Independence and autonomy are fostered through an understanding that individuals have different needs and require different types of support.