Читать книгу Caring for People with Learning Disabilities - Chris Barber - Страница 8

Foreword

This is a beautifully and sensitively written book. Although it has been aimed at health care professionals and students, it is equally applicable to carers and families of people living with learning disabilities. It follows the life course of those with learning disabilities, and the use of case studies makes it an exceptionally realistic information guide. Every chapter is significant and has a crucial role in the care and nurturing of this population.

Three of the themes covered touched me in particular. Firstly, at a time when dementia care is at the forefront of delivery of appropriate care and support, it is encouraging to highlight the condition and its impact on people with learning disability as overall life expectancy increases. Using the scenarios to support the level of care, and addressing the gaps in care provision for people with learning disability, assists in increasing awareness for health workers.

In Chapter 9, the author covers a subject that health care professionals, families and carers alike find it difficult to mention and even discuss with the person with the learning disability. It is, in my view, important that sexuality is not treated as a taboo subject but as a human right, with the appropriate support to change attitudes of stakeholders and carers.

In Chapter 12, informal carers are addressed; these are unpaid carers whose needs and wellbeing are often ignored or overlooked. The author examines this and offers the reader an understanding of the important role they play and the need to be rewarded for their contribution. Thank you to you all.

Chris Barber’s book is an enjoyable, touching and inspirational read for all those involved in the lives of people with learning disabilities.

Cecilia Anim

President of the Royal College of Nursing (2015)