The relationship between living arrangement and adherence to antiepileptic medications among individuals with developmental disabilities

Abstract

Non-adherence to AEDs is a potential medical risk for individuals with ID that is significantly impacted by the type of community living arrangement.

Service Responses to People with Intellectual Disabilities and Epilepsy: A Systematic Review

“…In the USA, living situation was found to be associated with adherence to AEDs, with non‐adherence being 6% in group homes, 20% in semi‐independent living and 32% in family homes (Hom et al . ). In Ireland, those in residential care were more likely to have a seizure diary (93%) than those living independently (44%) or in the community (78%) (McCarron et al .…”

“…; Hom et al . ), and in one survey, most respondents were from the United States (USA) (Camfield et al . ).…”

“…; Hom et al . ) and one combined retrospective review of data sources with interviews (Ring et al . ).…”

Pharmacotherapeutic Considerations for Individuals with Down Syndrome

“…50 Semiindependent living arrangements were also negative predictors of adherence in those with intellectual disabilities compared with those in a group home setting. 50 Guardians of children with DS may also influence therapy. One study reported that guardians of children with intellectual disabilities were more likely to refuse to vaccinate them.…”

“…It has been reported that individuals with intellectual disabilities (including DS) living in a family home displayed higher rates of nonadherence to medication regimens compared with those in group homes . Semi‐independent living arrangements were also negative predictors of adherence in those with intellectual disabilities compared with those in a group home setting . Guardians of children with DS may also influence therapy.…”