The term Learning Disability (LD) defines a significant impairment in cognition and social functioning, present from birth/early-childhood with a lifelong enduring impact. Severe LD (SLD) and Profound and Multiple LD (PMLD) diagnoses are made when intelligence quotient falls below 35 and 20 respectively. Physical disability in LD is largely neurological as brain development is interrupted/affected.

While the effectiveness of hydrotherapy (use of water for therapy/rehabilitation) is proven in many neurological conditions, evidence regarding adults with SLD/PMLD is lacking. Previous research in other neurological populations, has centred on the biomedical-model of disability, highlighting a need for exploratory and biopsychosocial research (combining biomedical with psychosocial factors).

In this qualitative study, caregivers of adults with SLD/PMLD were recruited through public advertising and participated in virtual semi-structured interviews and an online-questionnaire. The biopsychosocial International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework underpinned the study methodology, informing the main interview topics and questionnaire. Topics included: health, function, welfare, connections and support.

Twenty-three caregivers participated in the study: five family, nine health-professional, eight paid, one volunteer.