Abstract: Abundant research highlights the importance of early detection and intervention for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As a result, regulations and funding have primarily targeted services and research to support identification and skill acquisition of children. However, a large proportion of children with IDD who age out of the public school system continue to exhibit significant skill deficits throughout adulthood. Without appropriate supports and services, these adults experience limited employment prospects, fewer opportunities for independent living, poor community integration, and diminished quality of life. There is a large body of ABA intervention research documenting evidence-based practices for children with IDD in the domains of communication, socialization, and prosocial behavior; however, only a handful of studies have examined ABA strategies targeting adults with IDD. In this session, the expert panelists will address issues in the delivery of evidence-based ABA services for adults with IDD. Panelists will discuss their successes and challenges in implementing evidence-based services in the context of scarce financial resources within complex adult service delivery systems. Specifically, issues of sexuality, appropriate use of psychotropic medications, and opportunities for new research will be discussed. Finally, the panelists will open the floor for discussion of next steps to improve service delivery for adults with IDD. |