Exploring health and wellness among Native American adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their family caregivers

Background: Adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) experience health inequities, and those who also identify as a member of an ethnic minority group face additional health inequities. In the United States, a majority of adults with IDD continue to be supported by family caregivers making their health equity also important. The purpose of this study was to explore how Native American adults with IDD and their family caregivers experience health and wellness. Method: This community-engaged research was guided by a Community Advisory Board (CAB) with study participants completing a Photovoice project. Results: Participants identified individual, family and community level influences on health and wellness including the importance of participation in meaningful activities and connection to culture. Conclusions: In order to address health inequities, more research is needed to understand health and wellness from the unique perspectives of individuals with IDD and those from racial and ethnic minority groups.