Authors:
Fairthorne J, Fisher C
Authors notes:
Intouch. 2013;30(11):13
Keywords:
Autism, intellectual disability, quality of life, disability, parents
Abstract:
Usually, the birth of a child is memorable and joyous.
But for mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability many factors impact on their quality of life.
We wanted to explore the quality of life of mothers of children with autism and intellectual disability and identify factors that impact their quality of life.
We found Mothers of children with autism and intellectual disability had a reduced quality of life.
With the informed provision of services, the quality of life of mothers in similar circumstances might be improved.
Furthermore, we believe that the cost of these services is likely to be exceeded by savings in terms of their improved health and a reduced need for full-time residential care for their children.