February TCAID: InFocus - Singapore Delegation Visits Ireland to Learn from Leading Intellectual Disability Services

 

A delegation from Singapore visited Ireland and the Trinity Centre for Ageing and the Life Course in Intellectual Disability (TCAID) to experience firsthand the country’s innovative and person-centred services for people with intellectual disability and to learn more about the groundbreaking research from the Intellectual disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA). The visit kicked off with an emersion day in TCAID meeting the researchers and learning about the research being conducted there, from the physical health challenges of women with intellectual disability to the influence the research is having on policy that is shaping and changing the landscape of care for those with intellectual disability. The delegation also enjoyed engaging with the TCAID’s ambassador Mei Lin Yap, finding her talk insightful and thought-provoking. The visit also included engagements with several service providers renowned for their expertise and holistic approaches. At Stewarts Care Services, the group explored day services and witnessed equine therapy in action, a therapeutic intervention supporting physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.

They also met with the onsite medic and multidisciplinary team, with the visit expertly coordinated by Donal Moynihan, Programme Manager for Independent Living Services. Pei Ing (Nurse) remarked that:

'It was a wonderful experience at TCAID and visiting the services. I found everyone so generous with their time and expertise in supporting people with intellectual disability in the community. I was particularly moved by the nurses I met, their dedication and passion for their work are deeply admirable.'

 

 

 

At Avista, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Pamela Dunne, Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in Dementia Care, who introduced them to Avista’s specialist dementia services. The group toured a home purpose-built for people ageing with dementia and intellectual disability, explored approaches to end-of-life care, and visited other community-based homes that embody Avista’s inclusive and person-centred model. One of the team noted:

I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet dedicated professionals across various organisations supporting persons with intellectual disabilities, whose dedication and inspiring work has made me determined to bring meaningful change back home.' - Nadzira (Nurse)

 

The group also visited Gheel Services, hosted by Orla Heaney, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Autism, where they experienced exemplary person-centred support for individuals with both autism and intellectual disability. The approach impressed the delegation for its emphasis on autonomy, meaningful engagement, and tailored community living.

'Seeing different professionals provide person-centred care across diverse settings was truly inspiring! It’s heartening to see that, despite cultural differences, we share a common drive to create meaningful change for PWIDs. Grateful for this valuable learning experience! - Si Hui (Occupational Therapist)

 

 

Finally, the delegation spent time at Tallaght University Hospital, meeting Professor Seán Connolly and his team. Here they learned about Ireland’s national dementia services for people with intellectual disability, including specialist memory clinics integrating research, innovation, and compassionate clinical care.

Throughout the visit, the delegation engaged in lively discussions about best practice, staff development, and the integration of research findings into service delivery, particularly those emerging from IDS-TILDA. The exchange fostered a valuable dialogue between Irish and Singaporean professionals, highlighting shared commitments to evidence-based, person-centred care for people with intellectual disability across the lifespan.

'Thank you everyone for doing what you do and for your generosity in sharing and imparting your knowledge and resources!' - Soo Wen (Social Worker)