Disability group home residents and support worker perceptions of health communication during an infection outbreak: “Junk mail”

Background: During infection outbreaks people with intellectual disability face numerous challenges in accessing appropriate health information and guidance. This research sought to understand how information about infectious diseases was shared in Australian group homes, and what helps or hinders information access. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six residents and eight support workers during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021–2022), and observational tours of two residential group homes were also completed. Interviews and observations underwent thematic and content analysis. Results: Findings centred around five key themes: (i) the COVID-19 context; (ii) living in an information soup; (iii) seeking information from trusted sources; (iv) sharing information with others; and (v) the value of tailored communication support. Conclusion: Our study found that information sharing about infectious diseases in disability group homes was multidirectional and drew on both formal and informal sources. Inclusive information sharing in these settings demands a coordinated and tailored approach.