The Overlooked Needs of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Actions to Strengthen Health Systems for Inclusion
Rosemary Collaboratory builds upon lessons learned and relationships forged by Special Olympics through nearly 30 years of community-level health programming. This report provides recommendations for policy change and urges governments to take urgent action to make health for all a reality.
In 2024, Special Olympics launched the Rosemary Collaboratory in 11 locations around the world. For over 20 years, Special Olympics has implemented health programs in these communities, building strong local relationships and a deep understanding of what governments and health systems need to achieve health equity for people with IDD.
Many of us aren’t living our best lives because we aren’t as healthy as we could be. This is because we are overlooked, invisible, excluded, and so are our needs.
Governance, Leadership, and Engagement
Person-Centered Care
Health and Care Workforce
Data for Monitoring and Research
People with IDD live 16-20 years less than the general population. They face disproportionate preventable health challenges due to gaps in the health system, including a lack of knowledge, policies, and engagement. This leaves them overlooked, not because their needs don't exist, but because they remain invisible.
This is where you come in.
By sharing the findings of the Rosemary Collaboratory report, you will join SOI in pushing for real, impactful change. SOI welcomes you to engage with the report and resources below to join the movement to ensure that people with IDD receive the care, attention, and respect they deserve.
