Exploring social participation among older adults with intellectual disabilities in Chile: barriers, opportunities, and adaptive strategies

This study explores the experiences of social participation among older adults with intellectual disabilities in Chile, a population often excluded from aging and disability policy agendas. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 123 people with intellectual disabilities aged 45 and over from three diverse regions, the study identified the types of activities they engage in, the barriers they face, and the adaptive strategies they use to remain socially connected. Using thematic analysis, we found that participation was shaped by a complex interplay of personal, environmental, and structural factors. Barriers included inaccessible transport and environments, cognitive demands, and attitudinal exclusion. Facilitators included relational trust, personalised activities, flexible programming, and accessible communication. Findings highlighted the need to move beyond binary notions of inclusion and understand participation as a negotiated, context-dependent process. The study offers regionally grounded evidence to inform inclusive aging policy, emphasising the importance of low-cost, relationally responsive adaptations and coordinated supports. It also calls for greater integration between aging and disability sectors to ensure equitable opportunities for engagement across the life course.