Independent Living Needs of Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the independent living needs of young adults with intellectual disability (YAID) in preparing for adulthood and work life. This study was conducted using the phenomenological design, which is one of the qualitative research methods. 10 YAIDs were observed, their skills were evaluated, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 30 individuals consisting of 10 individuals from each group, with their parents, employers, and teachers regarding the employment education course. The results of the study indicated that YAIDs had difficulties in independent living skills and adaptation to work rather than employment skills while preparing for adulthood and work life and that those difficulties were mostly due to the lack of knowledge and skills. It was revealed that the needs of YAIDs in preparing for work life were primarily personal care and hygiene, interpersonal skills and self-determination, employability skills, sexual education, and safety skills.