Can Family Carer Groups Help People with Intellectual Disabilities? Applying Focused Ethnography Methods in Community Contexts of Northeastern Thailand

ABSTRACT

@#Introduction: This study aimed to explore the experience of family carer groups caring for individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) in the community contexts of Northeastern Thailand. Materials and Methods: We applied a focused ethnography method with a purposive sampling technique to conduct 35 in-depth interviews (of 14 individuals with IDs, 12 caregiving parents and nine disability group leaders, respectively), which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, then translated from Thai to English. We used content analysis to code the interviews and develop themes. To evaluate the reliability of the coding attempt, we employed data triangulation techniques. Results: Family carer groups seemed to provide benefit to people with IDs and their families by offering support related to information records, the recovery of health and occupational skills development. Conclusion: Family carer groups are an integral part of efforts to support people with IDs. Notably, these groups may facilitate the early formation of long-term parent carer plans, which can better optimise the care and health outcomes of people with IDs in Thailand.