Purpose – This commentary aims to support Carol Walker and Cally Ward's paper by directing readers to work which could guide their practice with older people with learning disabilities and ageing family carers.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a selected review of initiatives to support older people with learning disabilities and their family carers over the past decade. Examples from the author's personal contacts are used to illustrate the discussion.
Findings – There are excellent materials to support practice. These include several resources to use directly with people with learning disabilities. However the policy and funding framework of services can stand in the way of people getting good support. It can also make people's lives more difficult, including increasing social isolation.
Originality/value – The paper provides the reader with the means to access practical tools, including free web‐based resources.