From Access to Belonging: Experiences of Older Adults With Intellectual Disabilities Participating in Mainstream Senior Groups

Abstract

Aging adults with intellectual disabilities continue to face barriers limiting their participation in community leisure and volunteer activities. In the province of Québec (Canada), the Active Mentoring for Social Inclusion Support (AMSIS) program provides individualized, on‐site support to foster inclusion in mainstream senior groups. This study explores the experiences of 13 adults who remained engaged in an activity with a minimum attendance of eight sessions. Data was collected through semi‐structured interviews. Interviews were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Participants described a warm welcome, supportive relationships within senior groups, and the community worker's decisive role in promoting belonging. Reported benefits included increased independence, new learning, expanded social networks, enjoyment, and improved self‐esteem. Persistent barriers were related to transport, social dynamics, task demands, and physical environments. Participants suggested diversifying tasks, adjusting pace, and increasing opportunities for socialization. Overall, small, concrete adjustments, and natural supports could promote to sustaining meaningful participation and enhancing autonomy and well‐being among aging adults with intellectual disabilities.