Handbook Explains How to Integrate Quality of Life Into Health Care, Education, Social Service Programs

11/12/2002

From: Anna Prabhala of the American Association on Mental Retardation, 202-387-1968, ext. 212

WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 -- Despite its tremendous recognition and practical applications in health care, education and social services, the concept of quality of life remains poorly understood and has eluded scientific measurement and evaluation -- until now.

For the first time, two experts simplify this nebulous concept into eight factors that can be applied, measured, and evaluated in the following areas of human service -- education; physical health; mental and behavioral health; mental retardation and intellectual disabilities; aging; and family services. The result is a quality of life model that health care, education, and social service professionals can use, not only to develop services that enhance lives of consumers, but also evaluate outcomes of these services.

"The Handbook makes the concept of quality of life concrete and measurable for the very first time," says veteran psychologist and educator Bob L. Schalock, co-author of the Handbook. "Everyone wants a life of quality, and in that sense, the Handbook is universal in its appeal." Schalock wrote the Handbook with Dr. Miguel Angel Verdugo of the University of Salamanca in Spain.

The Handbook identifies eight domains that contribute to a life of quality. These include emotional well being; interpersonal relations; material well being; personal development; physical well being; self-determination; social inclusion; and rights. The authors then identify core factors that contribute to each of these domains and suggest techniques that enhance quality of services in eight most debated areas of human service-education; physical health; mental and behavioral health; mental retardation and intellectual disabilities; aging; and families.

The Handbook also proposes a new model to measure quality of life that is both practical and application oriented. The authors walk you step-by-step through measurement procedures and strategies 3/8#Y.to test q uality of life standards in programs and services. Further, the book also tells you what principles, policies, and initiatives individuals, organizations, and communities at large can adopt to lead more meaningful lives.

The Handbook is based on a review of 900 international articles on quality of life from 1985-2000, making it the most current and comprehensive book published to date on the subject.

Title: Handbook on Quality of Life for Human Service Practitioners PUBLISHER: American Association on Mental Retardation BOOK: Paper 350 PAGES ISBN 0-940898-77-2 $44.45 (MEMBER) $49.95

Review copy/author interviews: Call Anna Prabhala at 202-387-1968, ext. 212 or email annap@aamr.org. Order book: Call 301-604-1340 or email aamr@pmds.com

Founded in 1876, the mission of AAMR is to promote progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual disabilities.