Abstract of G. Schwartz Lecture

SUCCESSFUL AGING AMONG MENTAL RETARDATION
ELDERLIES WHO ARE LIVING IN COMMUNITY HOUSING

G. Schwartz, Y. Yagoda

AKIM Holn Hostel, Israel

The concept of aging amongst mentally retarded has been discussed

for over a decade. Nevertheless, the community homes dealing with

aging residents continue to study the issue and respond to any issues

arising from their studies. AKIM Holon hostel is a home to 23 elderly

people with intellectual disability, ranging in age from 40 to 73. In this

document, we demonstrate the diverse needs of older residents, and

the solutions provided in the hostel. Leisure. We have adapted the

leisure activities that already exist in the hostel to suit the needs of the

aging population. This includes adaptation of the activities within and

outside of the hostel (trips abroad etc) to meet the interests and

abilities of a more elderly population. Family Ties. We have initiated

meetings with parents and siblings of the tenants, addressing the

changes in guardianship which occur as the resident, and their parent,

ages. Emotional welfare. We have implemented intervention programs

on the subject of dealing with grief and separation in order to aid the

process of dealing with loss, along with strengthening and preserving

capabilities and strengths. Emphasis is placed on processing and

understanding the cycle of life. Employment. The supported workplace

has opened a special department for the older employees. Here the

emphasis is on relaxation and not necessarily production. Health.

Adjustment of diet and physical activities along with age appropriate

medical examinations, corresponding to the individual needs of the

resident. Diagnosis and appropriate interventions of further cognitive

decline.