Authors: Dodd P., & Guerin S.

Keywords: Bereavement • complicated grief • intellectual disabilities • grief • prolonged grief disorder

Abstract
Purpose of Review
The aim of this article is to present and synthesise recent research on grief and bereavement in people with intellectual disabilities, incorporating relevant studies with the general population.

Recent Findings
Work in the general population is currently focusing on achieving greater clarity in our understanding of typical and atypical reactions to grief. While much of this research is relevant to people with intellectual disabilities, this group also present unique challenges. These include variation in understanding of death, a continuum of grief reactions including pathological or complicated grief, and additional demands faced by professional carers and staff working in this area. However the research activity is somewhat limited in that it has relied on small-scale studies.

Summary
The possible recognition of prolonged grief disorder as a distinct clinical entity will have a significant impact on research and intervention with people with pathological or complicated grief. To date no prospective study of grief and bereavement has been conducted among people with intellectual disabilities. This is essential to best understand the course of grief and complicated grief in people with intellectual disabilities and minimise the levels of functional impairment.