The application of quality of life

Abstract

Background: Despite its popularity, to date little systematic work has been done in the application of the quality of life (QOL) concept to persons with intellectual disability (ID) and its impact on individuals and families. This article addresses that need. Method: The article summarizes the four application strands suggested by the IASSID SIRG on Quality of Life regarding the application of the QOL concept and discusses critical aspects of each. Results: Examples and guidelines regarding each strand are presented, along with the ongoing need to align conceptualization, application, and research efforts and integrate QOL principles into professional education and training programmes. Conclusions: The QOL concept is now challenging some of the more traditional views and approaches to ID. These challenges are resulting in modifications and adaptations in current services and supports, along with the need to evaluate the outcomes from the application of QOL principles to persons with ID. © 2005 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.