Deinstitutionalized care for disabled older adults: ethical dilemmas and community support gaps
Abstract
This article critically examines the transformative potential of deinstitutionalized care (DC) to reshape the care of disabled older adults. We point out the ethical tensions and systemic gaps that threaten their well-being. To address the limitations of DC, we explore how community-based support systems can empower disabled older adults, mitigate the risk of exclusion, and redefine aging with dignity. We advocate for people-centered reforms and underscore the urgency of centralizing the voices of disabled older adults in policy design. This could ensure that DC promotes autonomy, safety, and a meaningful sense of community belonging.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Aging
Elder Care
and Social Issues
Geriatric Care and Nursing Homes
Healthcare innovation and challenges
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Disability & Society
- Volume
- 41
- Issue
- 9
- Pages
- 2410–2415
- Publication date
- 17 February 2026
- Language
- EN