Useful Information

FILMS

"Rain Man" (1988)

“Rain Man” (1988) – Directed by Barry Levinson, this classic film stars Dustin Hoffman as an autistic savant and Tom Cruise as his brother.

"The Sessions" (2012)

“The Sessions” (2012) – Based on a true story, this film follows a man with polio (played by John Hawkes) who hires a sex surrogate (Helen Hunt) to help him experience intimacy.

"I Am Sam" (2001)

“I Am Sam” (2001) – Starring Sean Penn, this film tells the story of a mentally challenged man fighting for custody of his daughter.

"Awakenings" (1990)

“Awakenings” (1990) – Directed by Penny Marshall, this film is based on the true story of Dr. Oliver Sacks and his work with patients who survived the encephalitis lethargica epidemic.

"A Beautiful Mind" (2001)

“A Beautiful Mind” (2001) – Although not directly focused on elderly individuals, this film portrays the life of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician who struggles with schizophrenia.

"Still Alice" by Lisa Genova

“Still Alice” by Lisa Genova – This novel tells the story of a woman diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time"

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon – While not specifically about elderly individuals, this novel offers a unique perspective on living with Asperger’s syndrome. 

"Flowers for Algernon"

“Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes – This classic novel explores the impact of a scientific experiment that enhances the intelligence of a mentally disabled man.

"The Memory Keeper's Daughter"

“The Memory Keeper’s Daughter” by Kim Edwards – This novel delves into the complexities of family relationships and the impact of a life-altering decision. 

"Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life"

“Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life” by Louise Aronson – A non-fiction exploration of aging and healthcare, focusing on the experiences of elderly individuals.

Articles and Research Papers

Tal Araten-Bergman, Christine Bigby, Supporting healthy ageing for people with intellectual disabilities in group homes: Staff experiences, Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, (2024)

Anne Halmetoja, Antti Teittinen, Raisa Laaksonen, Challenges and responsibilities in the medication management process in 24/7 group housing services for adults with intellectual disability: Interviews with nurses, Journal of Intellectual Disabilities, (2023)

Marloes Thalen, Wietske MWJ van Oorsouw, Karin M Volkers, Petri JCM Embregts, Support needs of older people with intellectual disabilities: An exploratory study among psychologists in the Netherlands, Journal of Intellectual Disabilities, (2022)

Marloes Thalen, Karin M. Volkers, Wietske M. W. J. Oorsouw, Petri J. C. M. Embregts, Psychosocial interventions for older people with intellectual disabilities and the role of support staff: A systematic review, Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, (2021)

Joaquim Passos, 1 Carlos Sequeira, 2 and Lia Fernandes 3 , The Needs of Older People with Mental Health Problems: A Particular Focus on Dementia Patients and Their Carers, (2012)

VIDEOS

Mental Health& Aging - Supporting a Loved One - Professional Caregiver Webinar

Webinar: The Care of Older Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Complex Age-Related Conditions

Organizations and Centers
ŠENT - Slovenian Association for Mental Health (ŠENT - Slovensko združenje za duševno zdravje)

ŠENT is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting mental health and providing support for individuals with mental disabilities. They offer various services including counseling, education, and advocacy for the rights of people with mental health issues.

Psychiatric Hospital Ormož (Psihiatrična bolnišnica Ormož):

This psychiatric hospital provides specialized care and treatment for individuals with mental health disorders, including elderly patients. They offer inpatient and outpatient services, as well as rehabilitation programs tailored to the needs of elderly individuals with mental disabilities.

Center for Mental Health Care Koper (Center za mentalno zdravje Koper)

Located in Koper, this center provides comprehensive mental health services for individuals of all ages, including the elderly. They offer diagnostic assessments, treatment plans, therapy sessions, and support programs for individuals with mental disabilities.

Spominčica - Slovenian Alzheimer Association (Slovensko združenje za pomoč pri demenci)

While primarily focused on Alzheimer's disease, this association also provides support and resources for elderly individuals with other mental disabilities. They offer counseling, support groups, educational workshops, and respite care services for caregivers.

Slovenian Association of Social Institutions (ZDUS)

Works to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals, including those with disabilities, through advocacy and support.