Detecting Changes in Support Needs Over Time

Abstract Assessment of support needs has received significant attention in the disability field, however, little is known about the stability of support needs scores over time. Data from 82 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who were reassessed with the Supports Intensity Scale—Adult (SIS—A) version as well as the SIS—A Annual Review Protocol (SIS—A ARP) were analyzed. The findings suggest stability of SIS—A scores over a one- to three-year period in adults with IDD. Several sections of the SIS—A ARP showed discriminative power, particularly sections that asked if there had been changes in a subset of specific life activities assessed on the SIS—A and in medical and behavioral needs. Implications for further research and practice are discussed.