Creative engagement and leisure participation are crucial factors enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual disabilities. Adults with moderate intellectual disabilities, however, often face persistent barriers, including social stigma, limited community opportunities, and inadequate formal support services. In the absence of sufficient institutional support, families play a vital role in enabling and sustaining meaningful creative and leisure activities that foster social inclusion, emotional well-being, and autonomy. This study presents findings from qualitative research conducted with 30 parents in Greece (15 mothers and 15 fathers), each representing a family with an adult child with moderate intellectual disabilities. The 15 adult children (8 men and 7 women), aged 25 to 45 years, all resided in the family home. Using semi-structured interviews, the study explored the types of creative and leisure activities undertaken, the organizational role of families, the barriers and facilitators affecting participation, and the perceptions of gendered caregiving roles. Analysis revealed significant gendered differences in parental perspectives and involvement: mothers typically led daily planning and emotional support, while fathers provided logistical assistance and engaged in physical activities. Creative engagement was closely associated with emotional well-being, development of social skills, and reduction of challenging behaviors. Nevertheless, families reported caregiver fatigue, financial strain, and the lack of specialized community programs as enduring challenges. The study concludes with recommendations to develop inclusive, community-based programs; provide family support services; and implement professional training to enhance the social participation of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Keywords: Intellectual disabilities, family role, creative engagement, leisure.