The Association on Aging with Developmental Disabilities (AADD) was initially formed in 1989 as a special interest group and became incorporated in 1994. AADD has a primary objective of bringing the aging and developmental disability fields together to create and provide best practices for people aging with developmental disabilities (autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, learning disabilities, epilepsy, and intellectual disability—formerly known as mental retardation). It is a one of a kind organization in the United States, serving three area counties through ongoing programs and providing consultation and education beyond the geographical service area. In particular, AADD offers an Annual Conference on Aging with Developmental Disabilities. Under the leadership of Executive Director, Pamela J. Merkle, programs for people with developmental disabilities supported by AADD have been successful with progressive growth over the last 20 plus years.

Historically, people with developmental disabilities died at younger ages. However, more recently, individuals with developmental disabilities have experienced a more dramatic increase in lifespan than the general population. The average life expectancy for people with a developmental disability was 22 years in 1931, compared to 62 years for the general population. Now, average life expectancy is 70 years for most people with developmental disabilities, quickly approaching that of the general population. Sadly, AADD's oldest participant passed away in the Spring of 2020, just 3 months shy of her 90th Birthday. The oldest person currently served by AADD is an active 83 years, and still living independently in her own apartment.

Better healthcare and de-institutionalization have contributed to the rise in life expectancy; people with developmental disabilities who are living into older ages either grew up in the family home or were institutionalized. As older adults, they are living with aging family members, living independently or in supported living/group home settings. Most people with developmental disabilities did not produce offspring, so they have little if any family support as they age, thus the increased need for the support provided by AADD.

Through our direct services, AADD's overarching goal is to prevent entry into unnecessary long-term care placement and premature death in individuals who are aging with developmental disabilities. In response, all AADD programs have a common goal to provide necessary training to assist individuals in achieving a greater independence in the home and community while aging in place.