A comparative case study of hospice and hospital end-of-life care for aging adults with developmental disabilities
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2022
Department/School
Social Work
Publication Title
Global Qualitative Nursing Research
Abstract
Greater attention is being paid to issues surrounding end-of-life care for aging adults with developmental disabilities. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the end-of-life experiences of two aging adults with developmental disabilities and life-limiting serious illnesses who received care in settings in the United States. Using a comparative case study design, data from three sources (records, staff, surrogates) were collected sequentially and triangulated via within and cross-case analyses. Although the setting and design limit the generalizability of these findings, the feasibility of delivering high quality care to adults with developmental disabilities as they age and experience terminal illnesses is supported. Insights are presented regarding how nurses can address barriers by adapting policies and practices to accommodate the distinct needs that arise as people with developmental disabilities age, become seriously ill, and reach life’s end.
Recommended Citation
McGinley, J. M., & Marsack-Topolewski, C. N. (2022). A comparative case study of hospice and hospital end-of-life care for aging adults with developmental disabilities. Global Qualitative Nursing Research, 9, 233339362210876. https://doi.org/10.1177/23333936221087626