Thoresen Stian H, Fielding Angela, Gillieatt Sue, Blundell Barbara, Nguyen Liem
Curtin University, Australia.
J Intellect Disabil. 2017 Sep;21(3):203-219. doi: 10.1177/1744629517704535.
Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR) has experienced significant economic growth in the last two decades. While access to education, health, and employment for people with disabilities has also improved markedly, people with intellectual disabilities are still among the most vulnerable in society. This article presents findings from a screening survey of 2469 participants, a focus group discussion with key stakeholders in intellectual disabilities, and a case study of the Association for Autism. The screening survey suggests 1.9% of working age participants (18-59) and 0.7% of children (6-17) have intellectual disabilities. The qualitative data illustrate poor understanding and stigmatization of people with intellectual disabilities, lack of services, and development of a parent association to improve the life prospects for children with autism and intellectual disabilities. People with intellectual disabilities in Lao PDR remain particularly vulnerable. Parents and other disability advocates are raising awareness and demonstrating the effectiveness of specialized services.
老挝人民民主共和国在过去二十年经历了显著的经济增长。虽然残疾人在受教育、医疗和就业方面也有了明显改善，但智障人士仍然是社会中最脆弱的群体之一。本文介绍了对2469名参与者进行的筛查调查、与智障领域主要利益相关者进行的焦点小组讨论以及一个自闭症协会的案例研究结果。筛查调查显示，1.9%的工作年龄参与者（18至59岁）和0.7%的儿童（6至17岁）患有智障。定性数据表明，人们对智障人士的了解不足且存在污名化现象，服务缺乏，以及为改善自闭症和智障儿童的生活前景而成立了一个家长协会。老挝的智障人士仍然特别脆弱。家长和其他残疾权益倡导者正在提高认识并展示专业服务的有效性。
