Defining quality of life for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders: Challenges within an inpatient population

Abstract

Purpose: The concept of Quality of Life (QoL) for people with neurodevelopmental disorders primarily focuses on deinstitutionalisation and community inclusion. This population, however, often presents with comorbid diagnoses and is sectioned to treatment facilities under the Mental Health Act. The aim of this paper is to review the existing literature on QoL and discuss the consideration of this specialised population and the environment when measuring QoL. Methods: Databases were searched using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure literature reviewed was relevant to the defined population. The challenges identified from the literature were categorised into interpersonal and intrapersonal factors. Results: A total of 30 articles were retrieved and considered in this review. Conclusions: This paper discusses how these individuals present with different behaviours and opportunities, which subsequently make it difficult to apply existing knowledge of QoL. The need to further examine the QoL in this specific population is discussed.