Background: Respite or short breaks are frequently sought by parents and demand for them usually exceeds their availability. Methods: Using data from a national database in Ireland of around 16 000 persons living with family carers, the availability of overnight respite provision was monitored over an 8-year period along with the recorded needs…

The review deals with the impact of stress upon the parents and the siblings of children with intellectual disabilities. The basic proposition expounded is the need for respite care to allow the family to engage in those activities that are part of the experience enjoyed by other families within the community. (Author/CL)

Background: Parents of children and adolescents with both intellectual disabilities (ID) and psychopathology often experience high levels of parenting stress. To support these parents, information is required regarding the types of support they need and whether their needs are met. Method: In a sample of 745 youths (aged 10-24 years) with moderate…

Background: Parents of children with intellectual disabilities are at increased risk for stress and other mental health problems. The purpose of the present review is to consider the evidence base for psychological intervention to remediate stress in these parents. Methods: A selective review of interventions designed to reduce stress in parents…

Sixteen Israeli parents of young adults with mild/moderate mental retardation were offered a transitional training program which involved parent group sessions on future planning and, for the young adults, 16 overnights in a respite care program. Children enhanced their independent living skills; parents stress levels increased; and parents…