Young adults with intellectual disabilities participating in employment-related activities using the pathways and resources for engagement and participation intervention: A case study

Background

Participation-focused interventions are gaining momentum. The Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) is one such intervention, and it was investigated in this study for its effectiveness in supporting participation in employment-related activities for young adults with intellectual disabilities in Australia.

Methods

The application of the PREP approach was adapted to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions. Data were gathered from multiple sources in a triangulating manner following a case study design. Measures of performance, satisfaction, and a third measure of involvement were collected using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) in a multiple baseline format. The work questionnaire from the Assessment of Life Habits (Life-H) was administered at three time points, and qualitative data were collected post-intervention via a separate semi-structured interview with four young adults with intellectual disabilities and the two occupational therapist facilitators.

Findings

Performance, satisfaction and involvement scores had increased for 75% or more of employment-related goals at follow-up, although these changes were not statistically significant. Visual analysis indicated improved Life-H accomplishment scores post-intervention, but satisfaction with employment scores did not change. PREP was positively perceived, but the young adults reported needing more support from their participation teams.

Conclusions

The PREP intervention shifts the focus from a skills-based approach to a participation approach to practice and empowers young adults with intellectual disabilities to have greater independence over employment goals and related activities. COVID-19 restrictions limited the application of the PREP approach, but the experience was still valued by the participants, although additional training and support for them and the PREP participation team working with them may have further enhanced their experience and participation outcomes.