Background: Today, with the developments in the health field, the life expectancy of individuals with intellectual disabilities has also increased. The longer life expectancy has led to an increase in the care responsibilities of family members. This pilot randomized controlled study aims to improve the family’s quality of life and reduce mothers’ perceived stress levels by implementing an educational program (Transition to Adulthood Training Program – TATP).

Method: A pilot-randomized study was carried out from September 2022 to January 2023 at The Support Center for Disabled Children and their Families, involving 33 mothers of children with intellectual disabilities. Mothers in the intervention group engaged in the TATP, a program to support them through their young adult transition process. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Beach Center Family Quality of Life, and Perceived Stress Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, the chi-square, Wilcoxon Signed Rank, and Mann–Whitney U tests. The study was registered in the Clinicaltrials.gov PRS system under ID: NCT05587647.

Results: It was determined that the family quality of life mean score of the mothers in the intervention group was 97.83+12.05, while the mean score of the mothers in the control group was 82.86+8.20 (p<0.001). Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the mothers in the intervention and control groups on the family interaction, parenting, emotional well-being, and disability-related support subscales (p<.001, p<.005, p<.001, p<.005, p<.001, respectively). It was also determined that the perceived stress mean score of mothers in the intervention group was 35.22+7.32, and that of mothers in the control group was 37.33+6.53 (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Our study shows that TATP has a positive impact on mothers of young adults with intellectual disabilities. Experts and institutions should work together to create evidence-based educational materials. This partnership can help develop supportive programs and help families adapt to the changing needs of young adults.

Keywords: intellectual disability, transition, adolescent, nursing, care, mother.