Disability: social aspects Books

Book SynopsisA memoir by a disability rights activist Such a Pretty Girl is Nadina LaSpina's story—from her early years in her native Sicily, where still a baby she contracts polio, a fact that makes her the object of well-meaning pity and the target of messages of hopelessness; to her adolescence and youth in America, spent almost entirely in hospitals, where she is tortured in the quest for a cure and made to feel that her body no longer belongs to her; to her rebellion and her activism in the disability rights movement. LaSpina’s personal growth parallels the movement’s political development—from coming together, organizing, and fighting against exclusion from public and social life, to the forging of a common identity, the blossoming of disability arts and culture, and the embracing of disability pride. While unique, the author's journey is also one with which many disabled people can identify. It is the journey to find one's place in an ableist world—a world not made for disabled people, where disability is only seen in negative terms. La Spina refutes all stereotypical narratives of disability. Through the telling of her life’s story, without editorializing, she shows the harm that the overwhelming focus on pity and on a cure that remains elusive has done to disabled people. Her story exposes the disability prejudice ingrained in our sociopolitical system and denounces the oppressive standards of normalcy in a society that devalues those who are different and denies them basic rights. Written as continuous narrative and in a subtle and intimate voice, Such a Pretty Girl is a memoir as captivating as a novel. It is one of the few disability memoirs to focus on activism, and one of the first by an immigrant.Trade Review"From pity to empowerment, a woman born with polio illuminates her personal changes in attitude and accomplishment amid sweeping societal changes in rights for the disabled. . . . ‘I was the luckiest woman in the world,’ insists the author in this revelatory and deeply moving memoir that clearly shows how and why she came to feel that way." -- STARRED Kirkus Review"In this insightful memoir, disability activist LaSpina effortlessly shares how her personal experiences led to her activism, creating a compelling story that is both instructive and moving. ... readers will encounter her successes and set-backs, both personal and political, and learn about the U.S. medical system and its treatment of individuals with disabilities. ... LaSpina's story of determination and hard-won independence is engaging, informative, and ultimately, inarguably, inspiring." -- STARRED Booklist"The author skillfully ties her personal experiences into a broader social and historical context … an empowering and feminist book. It shows an immigrant, writer, teacher, and activist’s perspective on pivotal moments in history. In an intimate way, Such a Pretty Girl shows how far disability rights have come in the past 70 years and touches on inequalities that still exist." -- Book Riot"From the first vivid chapter set in Sicily to her gutsy activism in the U.S., LaSpinas triumphant memoir of a richly lived life held me rapt." -- Alix Kates Shulman"A memoir fueled by passion and grounded in history. Nadina LaSpina’s beautifully written narrative reveals a conscientious citizen and an exuberant and vibrant woman. Such a Pretty Girl is ultimately a love story." -- Simi Linton, author of My Body Politic"A feminist, personal perspective on disability. One of the main themes is the author’s developing ability to claim and enjoy her own beauty and sexuality." -- Gillian Kendall, coauthor of How I Became a Human Being

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Book SynopsisThe collective social history of deaf people in America has yet to be written. While scholars have focused their attention on residential schools for the deaf, leaders in the deaf community, and prominent graduates of these institutions, the lives of “ordinary” deaf individuals have been largely overlooked. Employing the methods of social history, such as the use of digital history techniques and often-ignored sources like census records, Eric C. Nystrom and R. A. R. Edwards recover the lived experiences of everyday deaf people in late nineteenth century America. Ordinary Lives captures the stories of deaf women and men, both Black and white, describing their family lives, networks of support, educational experiences, and successes and hardships. In this pioneering “deaf social history,” Edwards and Nystrom reconstruct the biographies of a wider range of deaf individuals to tell a richer, more nuanced, and more inclusive history of the larger American deaf community.Trade ReviewOrdinary Lives makes important contributions to deaf history, and it will encourage new areas of research across multiple disciplines." - Octavian Robinson, associate professor of deaf studies at Gallaudet University "Nystrom and Edwards are the first scholars to explicitly widen the historiographical practices of deaf history to include social history." - H-Dirksen L. Bauman, coeditor of Deaf Gain: Raising the Stakes for Human Diversity

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Book Synopsis'An anthology to treasure and return to' ELINOR CLEGHORN'Uniquely compelling, dynamic and powerful' LUCY JONES'Deeply affecting' TOM SHAKESPEARE'Promises to change the landscape of nature writing' LIZZIE HUXLEY-JONESA first-of-its-kind anthology of nature writing by authors living with chronic illness and physical disabilityWITH A FOREWORD BY SAMANTHA WALTONThrough twenty-five pieces, the writers of Moving Mountains offer a vision of nature that encompasses the close up, the microscopic, and the vast.From a single falling raindrop to the enormity of the north wind, this is nature experienced wholly and acutely, written from the perspective of disabled and chronically ill authors.Moving Mountains is not about overcoming or conquering, but about living with and connecting, shifting the reader's attention to the things easily overlooked by those who move through the world untroubled by the body that carries them.Contributors: Isobel Anderson, Kerri Andrews, Polly Atkin, Khairani Barokka, Victoria Bennett, Feline Charpentier, Cat Chong, Eli Clare, Dawn Cole, Lorna Crabbe, Kate Davis, Carol Donaldson, Alec Finlay, Jamie Hale, Jane Hartshorn, Hannah Hodgson, Sally Huband, Rowan Jaines, Dillon Jaxx, Louise Kenward, Abi Palmer, Louisa Adjoa Parker, Alice Tarbuck, Nic WilsonTrade ReviewBringing together startlingly original voices, Moving Mountains invites us not only to look at nature, but to live alongside it in community and collaboration. Privileging the experiences, perceptions, and perspectives of disabled and chronically ill writers and poets, this anthology is both an urgent call for justice, and an endlessly moving exploration of what it means to be human. Compelling, challenging, contemplative and curious, Moving Mountains is an anthology to treasure and return to -- Elinor Cleghorn * author of UNWELL WOMEN *Moving Mountains is a rich gift of much-needed stories and cosmologies that help us see the earth, our world and interdependence, and our ideas of "nature" and the "natural" with greater clarity. I found each of the narratives uniquely compelling, dynamic and powerful. Beautifully curated and edited with a moving introduction by Louise Kenward, Moving Mountains is a generative and profound anthology that I know I will return to - and it will help us untangle ourselves from many of the modern myths which separate and sever -- Lucy Jones * author of LOSING EDEN and MATRESCENCE *Personal involvements with nature are exposed in this deeply affecting collection, which will stay with you -- Tom ShakespeareSome of my favourite writers and artists are collected here. Together they present a strong argument for the expansion of nature writing into the realm of illness and disability - whether from bed, chair, balcony or close neighbourhood. What if your illness and/or disability - or for that matter ableism and lack of access - restricts your capacity to "immerse" yourself in nature? What can experiencing nature through an unsteady, uneven body reveal? In Eli Clare's words, a world that "relishes crookedness, wholeness and brokenness" -- Alice Hattrick * author of ILL FEELINGS *An important, vital, questing collection of words, stories and experiences of wild green space which asks what it means to lose oneself in nature and explores how acquaintance with living landscapes both urban and rural can earth, galvanise and inspire. An anthology to open eyes, minds and hearts, I loved it -- Dan Richards * author of HOLLOWAY and OUTPOST *A stunning anthology that promises to change the landscape of nature writing. Challenging who gets to write about nature, Moving Mountains is an ambitious, beautiful collection of work -- Lizzie Huxley-Jones * author and editor of STIM *Moving Mountains is a stunning book that captures the experience of living with a disability or chronic illness. Through the beautifully described narratives I felt seen, known and far less alone. Moving Mountains raises the voices of disabled authors but it offers insights to everyone, because illness impacts us all -- Claire Wade * author of The Choice *This is a beautiful collection of stories & poems by a variety of authors. The authors will feel like they are old friends sharing their deepest thoughts with you. As someone living with chronic illness, it was comforting and validating to be heard through these stories too -- Jeannie Di Bon * Hypermobility Movement Therapist *Nature might not heal disabled bodies, but it does connect and soothe. Just like this beautiful, raw book did for me -- Rachel Charlton-DaileyNature and pain have always been caught up together; in this lively anthology, nature and pain shine light on one another and both come out transformed -- Noreen Masud * author of A FLAT PLACE *This polyphonic exploration of bodies, minds and the natural world brings together fascinatingly diverse writing to create something magical. A collection that fuses fierce strength with lyricism, vulnerability with exciting prose, it's a moving testament to resilience and hope, and to celebrating joy wherever we can find it -- Lulah Ellender * author of GROUNDING *

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Book SynopsisMost people with Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NLD) or Asperger Syndrome (AS) are underemployed. This book sets out to change this. With practical and technical advice on everything from job hunting to interview techniques, from 'fitting in' in the workplace to whether or not to disclose a diagnosis, this book guides people with NLD or AS successfully through the employment mine field. There is also information for employers, agencies and careers counsellors on AS and NLD as 'invisible' disabilities, including an analysis of the typical strengths of somebody with NLD or AS, and how to use these positively in the workplace. Practical information and lists of career resources are supported by numerous case studies to inspire and advise. An essential resource for people with NLD or AS seeking or in employment and their existing or potential employers.Trade ReviewThis book is very suitable for people with Asperger syndrome who are conducting their job search independently or semi-independently, and who are interested in finding a career, not just a job. The author herself has a Non-Verbal Learning disorder and a large part of the book is devoted to contributions from other people with Non-Verbal learning disorder of Asperger syndrome, describing their experiences of employment. The later chapters look in depth at the issues, and provide lots of information and advice on the application procedure and dealing with your employers. Interestingly, the author recommends non-disclosure to employers, and instead suggests being honest about yourself and how you are without giving people labels. This is definitely a book for people who want to be taken seriously. -- Asperger Information.netEmployment for Individuals with Asperger Syndrome or Non-Verbal Learning Disability is the best book I have read on AS/NLD and career issues. I also highly recommend it for the parents and other family members of people with AS/NLD, educators, vocational rehabilitation personnel, mental health professionals, employers, and even the general public. It is essential that more people learn about AS and NLD, and on how both disorders affect employment. Hopefully in the future, the prognosis for those with Asperger's Syndrome and Nonverbal Learning Disorder in the workplace will be more positive. This book is the first step on that journey. -- Asperger's Association of New England NewsletterTable of ContentsIntroduction. NLD and AS: Descriptions, Differences and Similarities. Part I. Career Voices. NLD Voices. 1. I Should have Listened. 2. The Lawyer. 3. The Long Road. Charlene A. Derby. 4. The Research Associate. 5. The Professor. 6. For the Love of Books. 7. Try, Try, Try Again. Kim Stocum. 8. The Corporate Backpacker. Lisa Marti. 9. Teaching. Debbie Green. AS Voices. 10. The Prodigal Son. 11. The Eccentric. 12. The Transcriptionist. 13. Great Expectations. 14. Survival in the Workplace. Stephen Shore. 15. The Salesman. Jeff G. 16. The Graduate. 17. In Pursuit of Approval. 18. The Entrepreneur. Part II. Career Strategies. Planning for a Career. 19. Career Planning for the AS/NLD Individual. 20. The Professional Voice: Career Counseling for the NLD/AS World. Marcia Brown Rubinstien. 21. Transitioning from School to Work. James Emmett, Karen Steffan and Yvona Fast. 22. Finding a Job. 23. A Short Intro to Job Hunting. 24. Presenting Yourself: In Print. 25. Showcase your Work. 26. Presenting Yourself: In Person. 27. The Professional Voice: How to Survive the Job Interview. Lawrence M. Blim, CPA, CGFM. 28. Questions to ask in the Interview. Maintaining a Career. 29. The Professional Voice: The Employer's Perspective on Hiring People with NLD/AS. Lawrence M. Blim, CPA, CGFM. 30. Your First Hundred Days. 31. Work Issues. 32. Major Hurdles: Sociability and Communication. 33. More Hurdles. 34. A Few Lists. 35. Disclosing: If, how and when to do it. 36. Some Commandments for an employer who is working with an NLD employee. Jennifer Lerner. 37. Strategies for Successful Employment. Debbie Green. 38. Workplace Bullying and the AS/NLD Individual. Lana Kapchinsky. 39. You have a Bad Attitude. Alice E. Gerard. 40. Vocational Rehabilitation Programs and the NLD/AS Individual. 41. Individualized Employee Plan.Judy Lewis and Debbie Green. 42. I Have a Dream. List of Jobs. Part III. Resources. Disability Resources. Career Resources. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhy do students in Grades K–12 struggle with social and academic skills, and how can teachers help them develop the competence and confidence they need to succeed? Get practical answers in the new edition of this bestselling book, a staple of teacher training since 2001. It’s structured like the popular previous editions: a detailed questionnaire pinpoints each student’s individual strengths and needs, and an updated version of the highly effective Building Blocks model helps educators target 12 school success factors with proven strategies and guidelines they can use right away. Reliable, up-to-date research makes this a perfect preservice textbook, and the classroom-ready strategies are a lifeline for in-service teachers as they work toward better outcomes for struggling students.HELP STUDENTS MASTER 12 BUILDING BLOCKS OF LEARNING: Self-Regulation Behaviour Emotions Resilience Phonological Orthographic Memory Motor Automaticity/Efficiency Verbal Nonverbal Executive Functions WHAT’S NEW: New in-depth information on today’s most critical topics, including school climate, multi tiered systems of support (MTSS), positive behaviour interventions and supports (PBIS), social emotional learning, and student—teacher interactions. You’ll also get fresh contributions from experts on learning disabilities and behaviour challenges, plus lists of helpful apps and other online resources.

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Book SynopsisA gorgeously crafted memoir about resilience, family, and forging your own way, by a woman born without legs.Trade Review"Extraordinarily courageous; [Cronin] chronicles her journey to fit in and thrive with bravery and wit." -- O, The Oprah Magazine"Compelling... [Cronin’s] grit, grace, and optimism are a lesson to anyone confronted by a severe challenge..." -- The Washington Post"Mermaid is studded with searing moments…" -- The Boston Globe

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Book SynopsisThis is the first book to be written by autistic college students about the challenges they face. Aquamarine Blue 5 details the struggle of these highly sensitive students and shows that there are gifts specific to autistic students that enrich the university system, scholarship, and the world as a whole.DawnTrade Review“This is the first book to be written by autistic college students who have been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome or with High Functioning Autism. It demonstrates their unique way of looking at and solving problems and the challenges they face. Aquamarine Blue 5 details the struggles of these highly sensitive students and shows that there are gifts specific to autistic students that enrich the university system, scholarship, and the world as a whole. "Her unusual approach to understanding human behavior leads to powerfully clear analysis of the problems faced by people with Autism.” * ForeWord *“These essays… exhibit a level of awareness, effective writing, and sophisticated understanding of the world they must cope with that are usually thought beyond the capabilities of even the highest-functioning people with autism.” * author of Exiting Nirvana: A Daughter’s Life with Autism *

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Book SynopsisActive Support is a proven model of care that enables and empowers people with intellectual disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of their lives. This evidence-based approach is particularly effective for working with people with more severe disabilities, and is of growing interest to those responsible for providing support and services. The authors provide a comprehensive overview of Active Support and how it can be used in practice, based on the theory and research underpinning the methods involved. They describe how to engage people with intellectual disabilities in meaningful activity as active participants, and look at the communication style needed to foster positive relationships between carers and the people they are supporting. Highlighting the main issues for those trying to put Active Support into practice, they explain what is needed on a day-to-day basis to support the implementation, improvement and maintenance of the approach, along with possible solutions for the difficulties they may encounter. Finally, they look at how to integrate Active Support with other person-centred approaches, drawing on examples from various organisations and individual case studies. The definitive text on Active Support, this book will be essential reading for anyone professionally concerned with the quality of life of people with intellectual disabilities, including psychologists, behaviour specialists, social workers, care managers, occupational therapists and inspectors and regulators of services, as well as families.Trade ReviewMansell and Beadle-Brown have created a thorough handbook of AS and how to implement it successfully. Readers of this book will also obtain different perspectives of challenges faced with AS, and how to resolve these. The book is a stimulating read, with a strong evidence base referenced to research and government papers. The authors explain their material clearly, and offer ideas for future research. This is a book to buy for any student or practitioner in a relevant field. -- British Journal of Occupational Therapyexcellent and accessible book... It provides a concise explanation of active support - meaningful, engaging and fulfilling daily activities by carers providing intensive support - and how to set about providing this. -- Nursing StandardThe book is comprehensive and essentially provides a value base and structure to support service users positively. It will be useful for families, care providers and health and social care practitioners who work or care for people with intellectual disabilities. -- International Journal of Developmental DisabilitiesThis book is drawn from international sources and sits within social policy and social work values of social inclusion, choice, participation, respect and dignity. Its great value is that by drawing on research as to what works in practice then it is both a key source of evidence and a call of action to effect change at different levels... Each chapter manages to discuss and analyse issues and challenges with which we are all familiar. The evidence is used to highlight what works and to recommend best practice at different levels. This is an important book that deserves to be read by students, social workers, team leaders, senior managers, policy makers and inspectorate staff and its recommendations acted upon. -- RostrumThis landmark book is an authoritative text on the organisation of support and methods of direct practice with people with severe intellectual disability. Written by two outstanding academic leaders, it draws together the significant body of research that forms the evidence base for person centred active support. Its unique contribution and thus immense value is the clarity with which this knowledge is translated into a comprehensive guide to every day practice for staff, front line leaders and senior managers. This book is a key source of theory and evidence for students, researchers and policy makers, as well providing practitioners and organisations with a blueprint for action. -- Professor Christine Bigby, LaTrobe University, AustraliaMansell and Beadle-Brown have pulled together, in one place, a readable, practical yet research-based guide to improving supports for people with significant intellectual disabilities. I recommend this concise volume for any service provider or policymaker who supports this population. It is well worth the read. -- Steven M. Eidelman, H. Rodney Sharp Professor of Human Services Policy and Leadership, University of DelawareThis is a really helpful book for anyone wishing not only to understand the place of person centred active support in enabling people with complex support needs to exercise control over their own lives, but to implement it effectively. It is meticulously researched and distils experience gained from implementation really well. -- Bob Tindall, Managing Director, United Response and former Chair and current board member of the Association of Supported Living (ASL)In my 35 years of working with people with a disability I have not come across anything as important as Person-Centred Active Support. It is now at the core of almost all the work that I do. -- Gary Radler, Clinical Psychologist, Positive Behaviour Support Services, AustraliaPerson Centred Active Support has been an essential core element of what we do for more than 10 years; it takes energy and tenacity to implement and maintain but the difference it makes in people's lives makes it very worthwhile. -- Ian McLean, CEO, Golden City Support Services (GCSS), AustraliaTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Introduction. 1. Engagement in Meaningful Activity and Relationships. 2. The Enabling Relationship. 3. Organising Staff Support. 4. Practice Leadership. 5. The Organisational Context. 6. Integrating Active Support with Other Person-centred Approaches. Conclusion. Appendix I: Summary of the Levels of Engagement Reported in Available Studies and Additional Analysis of Available Data, with Adaptive Behaviour Scale Part 1 (ABS) Score Where Available. Appendix II: Summary of Data on Engagement and Support from Staff Following Implementation of Active Support. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisFleeing from Nazi Europe in the late 1930s, Austrian-born Karl König and his colleagues founded the first Camphill community, for children with special needs, outside Aberdeen in the north of Scotland. The seven essays by König in this book explain the principles behind what would grow to become a worldwide movement.The insights in this book reveal the inner motivations that drove König and his team to persevere with their social project, and help modern-day readers to understand how they succeeded in building a network that now numbers over one hundred communities in twenty countries around the world.Includes extensive diary excerpts, documents and photographs from the Karl König Archive.Trade Review'We are not only looking into an historical archive but have here a book which aims to clarify the present through the past and into the future... [the book] offers inspiration to take up the baton and continue the legacy of Konig's three-star personalities, of Steiner and Konig himself to decide for the positive when surrounded by negativity, to create good out of tragedy and to have faith in one's ideals.'-- New View

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Book SynopsisBringing up a child with developmental disabilities, especially autism, presents many challenges for parents, and the focus of attention is almost invariably on the child. This practical and compassionate book looks at a range of issues from the parents' point of view - from whether their child really loves them, to challenging received wisdom on matters such as sensory integration and boarding school. The author's many decades of experience of working with families provide the basis for this practical support and help in thinking about and approaching some of the most difficult and intractable issues.One, often unvoiced, concern for parents is whether their children love or care about them. The first section of the book consists of three letters from young people to their parents, showing clearly that though they may never have been able to say so directly, they do love and appreciate their parents, and what they have done for them - a strong message for all parents in a similar situation. Clements goes on to look at how the parenting agenda changes over time, how to see beyond the diagnoses and the constant need to deal with immediate problems, to see the real people who make up the family, the impact on siblings, how to manage the system and the multiple professional agencies over long periods of time, and how to think about the offer of medication to control behaviour. An important section addresses some of the most distressing behavioural challenges: physical aggression, verbal abuse, long-term severe self-injury, property damage, and obsessions. Finally, Clements offers objective and open-minded reflections on received wisdom about two other unchallenged topics - sensory integration, and the usefulness or otherwise of boarding schools. The book is practical, compassionate, and above all, useful. It will be of ongoing use to parents, and equally useful to professionals working with families encountering the issues covered.Trade ReviewEmpowering, hard-hitting, honest. Letters to the Home Front offers parents bringing up children with developmental/intellectual disabilities invaluable insights, practical strategies- a wealth of information and wisdom. The author John Clements also puts forward a down to earth and realistic view of the situations many families and individuals find themselves in and with regard to accessing and receiving services from multi-disciplinary providers. Truly a book to reflect on from a multi-dimensional perspective. -- Sue Telkamp, mother of a young man diagnosed with ASDJohn Clements has been a very popular and successful professional who has helped parents and caregivers over the past four decades to better understand and remediate behavioral challenges in children with ASD. This book presents a helpful, interesting and easy to read summary of this work. The format involving a series of letters between him and various constituents makes for fascinating reading and adds a note of reality. This is a pragmatic book that parents and professionals will enjoy reading and greatly appreciate because it fills many of the gaps in our understanding of ASD and how to work more successfully with these individuals on day-to-day concerns in the home, the classroom, and the community. -- Dr Gary Mesibov, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Departments of Psychiatry and Psychology, University of North CarolinaIn this extremely accessible book, John Clements draws on his extensive knowledge of the problems that families of children with autism and other conditions may face, to offer much needed advice. In “user-friendly” letters, he neither preaches nor judges, but discusses in un-sensationalist terms just what those problems may involve and some of the ways that they may be tackled. His compassion and empathy are clearly evident in his approach, and, although he makes it clear that there are no magic answers, I feel sure that many families will find his words very comforting and of immense practical help. -- Jane Asher, President of the National Autistic SocietyTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Preview. Letters Home: 1. Letters to My Family. Three young people on the autistic spectrum reflect on their growing up. A. Dean's Letter. B. Hannah's Thoughts. C. Alex's Letter. Letters Home: 2. Dear All. Considering some general topics and decisions that come up in the parenting process. A. The Road Ahead. Looking at how the parenting agenda changes over time. B. Who are you? Reflecting on how to see real people in the midst of significant and widespread differences in abilities and the diagnostic labels that often accompany these differences. C. Brothers and Sisters. Considering the impact on siblings of growing up with a brother or sister who has significant developmental disabilities. D. Managing the System. Thoughts about dealing with the challenges that arise for parents having to deal with multiple professional agencies over long periods of time. E. Got Behaviour – Get Drugs? A guide to help parents think through the issues that arise when they are offered medication to help control their son or daughter's behaviour. Letters Home: 3. Thinking About Some of the Behavioural Challenges Presented by Children and Young People on the Autistic Spectrum. A. Charlene. 'Obsessions'. B. Marcus. Physical aggression. C. Tyrone. Verbal abuse, physical aggression, property damage. D. Charlie…conversations that you never want to have. A danger to himself and others. E. Rudy…the long haul. Long term severe self-injury and physical aggression. Section Comments. Letters Home: 4. Idol Speculations. An attempt to show how to challenge in a constructive way 'received wisdom' that is passed to parents as statements of fact. A. Sensory Integration – brain changer or licence to twiddle? B. Boarding schools – a solution for difficult problems or a British disease? A Few Last Thoughts. Appendix 1: Constructive Behavioural Support – Service Evaluation Guide. Index.

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Book SynopsisBringing together international academics and professionals who are actively researching and working in the field, this pioneering scholarly volume covers the issues faced by individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD) in mid and later life.Including a range of personal, academic and clinical perspectives, the book considers historical and contemporary perspectives on autism, including diagnosis, developmental outcomes and life course issues. Attention is given to medical, care and psychological issues that arise as people with ASD age, such as declining cognitive function and speech and communication issues. Family, community support, housing, advocacy, and socio-cultural considerations for older adults with ASD are also given careful consideration, and there are chapters on relationship and sexuality issues and on environmental design.Trade ReviewThis new textbook provides an important introduction to the broad range of issues faced by mid- and later-life adults with an autism spectrum disorder. It links the personal experiences of affected individuals and their families with the perspectives of researchers from genetics and psychology through policy. Many of the chapters acknowledge that, unfortunately, we are only at the start of research efforts to understand the challenges faced by this aging population. Nevertheless Scott Wright has produced the first comprehensive textbook on this topic and it will undoubtedly frame this critical conversation going forward. -- Joseph Piven M.D., Thomas E. Castelloe Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry, Pediatrics and Psychology, Director, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillThere is a significant lack of knowledge about adults, particularly older adults, with autism. This book, on the challenges and promises of autism in later life, sets out to redress this situation, with contributions from individuals with autism, parents, clinicians and researchers from many disciplines. It focuses not just on the difficulties of growing older, but also on positive ways in which the future for older individuals with autism can be improved. It should be essential reading for anyone involved with adults with autism, and for those seeking to improve the transition from childhood to adult life. -- Patricia Howlin, Emeritus Professor of Clinical Child Psychology, King’s College, London; Professor of Developmental Disorders, University of SydneyThis is an important book on an essential topic... Scott Wright has managed to gather together a wonderful array of perspectives: cultural as well as biological; self-advocacy alongside clinical and research voices; family, community and societal viewpoints... This volume is a vital first step towards a better future for people with ASD growing old. -- from the foreword by Professor Francesca HappéTable of ContentsIntroduction. Scott D. Wright and Amy Maida Wadsworth, University of Utah, United States. Part I: Overview. 1. Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Past, Present, and Future. William McMahon, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States, Kristina Cottle, University of Utah, United States, and Megan Farley, Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, United States. Part II: Biosystem. 2. Genetic, Epigenetic, and Environmental Issues. Hilary Coon, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States, Christopher Gregg, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States, and Amanda Bakian, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States. Part III: Chronosystem - Historical, Contemporary, and Personal Perspectives on Aging with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 3. Ability Improves with Age. Temple Grandin, Colorado State University, United States. 4. Laying the Groundwork: How to Honor Autistic Essence Toward the Betterment of Society. Judy Endow, Common Threads Family Resource Center, United States. 5. Ageing with Autism: Improving Health, Improving Rights. Michael Baron, National Autistic Society, United Kingdom, and Saskia Baron, United Kingdom. 6. Aging and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Experiential and Social Perspectives. Digby Tantam, Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, United Kingdom. Part IV: The Person - Aging and the Aging Individual. 7. Ageing in People with ASD: Liaison Old Age Psychiatry Perspective. Elizabeta Mukaetova-Ladinska, Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, United Kingdom, and Mick Coppock, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom. 8. Challenges for Speech-Language Pathologists Working with Older Adults with Autism. Pamela A. Smith, Bloomsburg University, United States. 9. Autism and Age-related Cognitive Decline. Hilde Geurts, d'Arc (Dutch Autism & ADHD research center), University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. 10. Diagnosis and Assessment of Autism in Later Life. Bas van Alphen, Free University of Brussels, Belgium, R. C. Oude Voshaar, University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands, and Sylvia Heijnen, Mondriaan Mental Hospital, Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Heerlen-Maastricht, the Netherlands. 11. Clear Sailing: Aging Optimally on the Autism Spectrum. Bruce Parsons, Clinical Psychologist, United States. 12. Psychotherapy with Older Adults on the Autism Spectrum. Valerie Gaus,Private Practice, United States. 13. Ageing and Psychological Functioning in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Amanda Roestorf, Department of Psychology, City University London, United Kingdom, and Dermot Bowler, City University London, United Kingdom. Part V: Microsystem - Aging and Dyadic and Family Issues. 14. The Pursuit of Happiness: Older Parents' Views on Inclusion for their Adult Son or Daughter with Autism. Monique Hines, University of Sydney, Australia, and Susan Balandin, Deakin University, Australia. 15. It Takes a Village: Communication and Management in Caretaking for Adults with Autism. Ben DiCicco-Bloom, Department of Sociology, Hamilton College, United States. 16. Sexual Wellbeing and Relationships in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Shana Nichols, ASPIRE Center for Learning and Development, United States, and Sandra Byers, Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Canada. Part VI: The Mesosystem - Community Issues. 17. Aging Out and Aging Forward into the Community: Looking Ahead into the Journey of Growing Older with Autism. Denise D. Resnik, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, United States. 18. Design Empathy for Autism in Adulthood and Aging. A.J. Paron-Wildes, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), United States. 19. How Can We Learn More About the Lives of Aging Adults on the Autism Spectrum and their Relatives? Jeremy Parr, Newcastle University, United Kingdom. 20. Housing is the Hub of the Wheel. Gregory and JaLynn Prince, Madison House Autism Foundation, United States. 21. Community Support Needs of Adults with Autism. Valerie D'Astous, Karen Glaser, and Karen Lowton, Institute of Gerontology, King's College London, United Kingdom. 22. Psychosocial Interventions and Community-Based Services for Adults with Autism in the United States: Understanding What We Know Now and Charting a Course for the Future. Lauren Bishop Fitzpatrick, University of Wisconsin-Madison, United States. Part VII: The Macrosystem - The Aging Experience and Social Policy-Advocacy. 23. Autism and Aging: Epidemiology and Demographics. Terry Brugha, Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom. 24. Listen to the Experts: Autistic Adults Tell us What They Need. Carol Povey, Centre for Autism, National Autistic Society, United Kingdom,and Cos Michael, Autism Age, United Kingdom. 25. Through the Glass Wall: A Voice for Autism Advocacy and Social Policy. Robert MacBean, National Autistic Society Scotland, United Kingdom, and Stella Macdonald, Fife Council, United Kingdom. Part VIII: The Chronosystem Revisited - Future Directions. 26. Aging and ASD: Future Directions. Peter Gerhardt and Angela Rodriguez, The EPIC School, United States. 27. Current and Future Perspectives: How Do We Measure Up? Valerie Paradiz, Autistic Global Initiative, United States, and Xenia Grant, Global Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership (GRASP), United States. 28. Quality of Life Outcomes of Aging Adults with Autism and their Families. Elizabeth A. Perkins, Florida Center for Inclusive Communities, University of South Florida, United States. Summary. List of Contributors. Index.

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Book SynopsisGroup homes are the dominant form of residential accommodation for people with severe learning or intellectual disabilities, and yet there are significant problems within these living environments. This book seeks to highlight the key issues for both residents and staff, and offers practical suggestions for improving community living.Based on original empirical research and drawing on extensive field notes, the book paints a picture of life in group homes today. The authors propose a framework for increasing community presence and participation, and consider the barriers to be overcome if progress is to be made in achieving these key goals. The notion of 'homeliness', the challenge of maintaining a balance between individual and group needs and the concept of practice leadership are all explored. Group Homes for People with Intellectual Disabilities is essential reading for anyone working with people with learning or intellectual disabilities in residential services, as well as academics and students of disability studies, social work and health and social care programmes.Trade ReviewThis highly readable book provides a balanced and thoughtful analysis of the complex dynamics involved in providing homes for people with intellectual disabilities. -- British Journal of Social WorkClements and Bigby have written a well organised and highly readable book that draws together pertinent literature and their own considerable insight and research. In focusing attention on the heterogeneity of disability, they question generic disability policy rhetoric and confront the reader with the barriers and challenges inherent in policy implementation for people who have severe and profound intellectual disabilities living in group homes. -- Australian Social WorkI will say no more other than please read this excellent book. -- British Journal of Learning DisabilitiesThis book needs to be read by everyone interested in improving services for people with learning disabilities so that the great ideals of Valuing People and Valuing People Now can be realised. It takes seriously the very real challenges of making community presence and participation meaningful for people with higher support needs and seeks to translate high-flown rhetoric into practical advice for service-providing organizations, group home managers and workers in residential services. -- British Journal of Learning DisabilitiesThe book is easy to read, well-structured and provides a clear and sometimes saddening insight into the lives of people with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. However the overall message is one of hope and suggests realistic and achievable changes that can be made at all levels of service provision. -- The British Journal of Developmental Disabilities, Ewan CullingThis book can appeal to a wide range of readers... Throughout the book they use a wealth of field notes and excerpts from interviews with staff that help to illustrate their arguments and will resonate with the reader's own experiences in services. In addition, at the end of each chapter there is a list of important topics and questions for further consideration. The book is also an excellent source of information for students and researchers of learning disability services, because each chapter provides a review of the literature and research relevant to the topic. -- Tizard Learning Disability ReviewTable of ContentsForeword. 1. Introduction. 2. Living and Working in Group Homes. 3. Homeliness. 4. Planning and Action for Individualised Outcomes. 5. Participating in Your Own Home. 6. Building Inclusive Communities. 7. Practice Leadership. 8 The Organisational Context. 9. Final Thoughts. References. Index

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Book SynopsisThis vivid portrait of contemporary parenting blends memoir and cultural analysis to explore evolving ideas of disability and human difference. An Ordinary Future is a deeply moving work that weaves an account of Margaret Mead's path to disability rights activism with one anthropologist's experience as the parent of a child with Down syndrome. With this book, Thomas W. Pearson confronts the dominant ideas, disturbing contradictions, and dramatic transformations that have shaped our perspectives on disability over the last century. Pearson examines his family's story through the lens of Mead's evolving relationship to disabilitya topic once so stigmatized that she advised Erik Erikson to institutionalize his son, born with Down syndrome in 1944. Over the course of her career, Mead would become an advocate for disability rights and call on anthropology to embrace a wider understanding of humanity that values diverse bodies and minds. Powerful and personal, An Ordinary Future reveals why this call is still relevant in the ongoing fight for disability justice and inclusion, while shedding light on the history of Down syndrome and how we raise children born different.Trade Review"[A] moving meditation on difference, disability, and humanity. In 2015, when his newborn daughter, Michaela, was diagnosed with Down syndrome, [Pearson] and his wife were shocked. Soon, though, he asked himself whether that initial response was generated by ideas about normalcy deeply embedded in the culture. . . . Sensitive reflections on human value." * Kirkus Reviews *"In a new book, an anthropologist and father of three, including a daughter with Down syndrome, reflects on the pressures of parenting." * Sapiens *Table of ContentsContents Preface 1. Becoming 2. Features 3. Institutions 4. Potential 5. Belonging 1 6. Vulnerability Epilogue Acknowledgments Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisOffers an in-depth analysis of the absence and ignoring of, but also the presence of, autistic people in worship. Armand Leon Van Ommen recounts the experiences of autistic people and considers how those experiences might reframe liturgical theology and the worship practices of the church.Table of Contents Foreword Acknowledgments Introduction Starting the Conversation on Autism and Worship 1. Setting the Scene: Language, Autism Theology, and Autistic Experiences of Worship 2. How Autism Came to Be: The Problem of "Autism Is..." 3. The Tyranny of the Normal: Exposing the Cause of Absence and Ignoring 4. Presence and Participation: Toward a Theology of Availability 5. A Temple Community: A Liturgical-Theological Redrawing of "Normal" 6. Availability in Practice: Autistic Worship in Singapore Conclusion: A Church That "Gets You"

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Book SynopsisTrade Review "Contingent Figure is a book for the very best readers. Its meditation on chronic pain reimagines formalism’s intimate attention to bodily distress, in turn impelling queer theory to reckon with how incapacity feels as opposed to just the uses to which it is put politically. Poetic, incisive, and continually surprising, Contingent Figure is one of a kind."—Elizabeth Freeman, author of Beside You in Time: Sense Methods and Queer Sociabilities in the American Nineteenth Century "To learn the meaning of memory in the ruins of love, that is Michael D. Snediker's dare. The pages on Melville are harrowing and majestic, a wildly beautiful summons to throw ourselves into the visceral depths. Contingent Figure pushed me to experience both the deepest philosophy and the most obstinate invitation to the tremors of the flesh."—Colin Dayan, author of Animal Quintet: A Southern Memoir "Contingent Figure provides a timely defense, as well as a magisterial illustration, of what a literary reading of literary texts can achieve."—ALH Online Review Table of ContentsContentsPreface: CrasherIntroduction: “So Much for My Figurative Self”; or, Aesthetic Duress (Plein-Air, in Parts)1. Melville’s Iron Crown of Lombardy: Phenomenology beyond the Phantom Limb2. Queer Philology and Chronic Pain 3. “The Vision – pondered long”: Chronic Pain and the Materiality of Figuration 4. Inveterate Pagoda: Late James, Ongoingness, and the Figure of Hurt 5. Is the Rectangle a Grave? Floating Attention, Betweenness in Relief6. Weaver’s Handshake: The Aesthetics of Chronic Objects AcknowledgmentsNotesIndex

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThis fifth edition updates content, examples, and supporting research for well-developed principles. Practical dialogues representing a range of social work practice are a particular strength. The book also emphasizes culturally competent practice and guides social workers in difficult situations such as sharing bad news. -- Ronald Rooney, University of Minnesota This book is timeless! The authors have updated and enriched their newest edition and have added perceptive insights on crosscultural interviewing and new problem-solving interventions. They provide a dynamic examination of the helping process and present ideas and illustrations with eloquence and clarity. This seminal book is a gift to the profession. -- Alex Gitterman, University of Connecticut School of Social Work Too often students underestimate the complexity of interviewing, having seen televised talk show interviews or having engaged in problem-solving with friends. This book explicitly describes the skills and knowledge social workers must use in their professional roles. -- Kim Strom-Gottfried, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill School of Social Work The Kadushins have managed to convey both the science and art of interviewing without diminishing either aspect. Their book is a very practical tool for social workers and any human service worker. -- Julie Hughens, Mary Baldwin CollegeTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction Part I. General Orientation and Basic Concepts of Interviewing and Communication 1. Defining and Characterizing the Social Work Interview 2. The Interview as Communication 3. Listening and Silence as Interview Techniques 4. Nonverbal Communication 5. Establishing a Relationship Part II. Sequential Phases in the Interview Process and Associated Techniques 6. The Introductory Phase 7. The Problem Exploration Phase 8. The Developmental Phase: Problem-Solving Interventions 9. The Developmental Phase: More Problem-Solving Interventions 10. The Developmental Phase: Questioning Techniques 11. Termination and Evaluation Part III. Special Problems in Interviewing 12. Cross-Cultural Interviewing 13. Problematic Interviews Part IV. The Essence of the Good Interview 14. The Competent Interviewer L'Envoi- Appendix: Transcribed Interview and Critique References Index

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Book SynopsisDraws on feminist theory, African American and Latino/a cultural theories, composition studies, film and television studies, and theories of globalization and counter-globalization. This book articulates the central concerns of crip theory and considers how such a perspective might impact cultural and historical inquiry in the humanities.Trade Review"This well-annotated text invites the uninitiated reader to become involved, to reimagine previously held perceptions of what may be considered ‘otherness,’ to welcome disabilities, to access collectively other worlds and future possibilities." * Journal of American Studies *"A wonderful combination of humor, theory, intellectual, and personal insights . . . A valuable and well-written study." * Disability Studies Quarterly *"A compelling case that queer and disabled identities, politics, and cultural logics are inexorably intertwined, and that queer and disability theory need one another…. Makes clear that no cultural analysis is complete without attention to the politics of bodily ability and alternative corporealities." -- Elizabeth Freeman, author of The Wedding Complex"Important and significant for its attempt to find the common ground between disability studies and queer studies. This deftly written and very readable book will appeal to a wide range of readers who are increasingly fascinated by the biocultural interplay between the body, sexuality, gender, and social identity." -- Lennard Davis, author of Bending Over Backwards"The members of the Committee were especially impressed by McRuers original intervention in the area of queer studies, one that not only sheds light on the important new area of disability studies, but brings it into conversation with a variety of disciplinary perspectives, from composition studies to performance art. McRuers book combines the public and the private work of queer studies in surprisingly new ways." -- Ed Madden * Gay and Lesbian Caucus for the MLA *"McRuer charts new intersections for disability studies, queer studies, and American studies. His work is [at its] most vertiginous and rich . . . as he moves swiftly from cinema to street gangs to coming out Crip." * American Quarterly *"Engaging, expansive, and generous." * Sex Roles *Table of ContentsForeword: Another Word Is Possible, by Michael Berube Acknowledgments Introduction: Compulsory Able-Bodiedness and Queer/Disabled Existence 1 Coming Out Crip: Malibu Is Burning 2 Capitalism and Disabled Identity: Sharon Kowalski, Interdependency, and Queer Domesticity 3 Noncompliance: The Transformation, Gary Fisher, and the Limits of Rehabilitation 4 Composing Queerness and Disability: The Corporate University and Alternative Corporealities 5 Crip Eye for the Normate Guy: Queer Theory, Bob Flanagan, and the Disciplining of Disability Studies Epilogue: Specters of Disability Notes Works Cited IndexAbout the Author

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Book SynopsisBringing together the latest findings in Holocaust studies, the history of religion, and the history of sexuality in postwar - and now also postcommunist - Europe, Unlearning Eugenics shows how central the controversies over sexuality, reproduction, and disability have been to broader processes of secularization and religious renewal.Table of Contents List of Illustrations Preface 1 Abortion and Disability: Western Europe, 1960s–1970s 2 Moral Reasoning in the Wake of Mass Murder: The Singer Affair and Reproductive Rights in Germany, 1980s–1990s 3 Time Well Wasted: Sexual, Political, and Psychological Subjecthood in the European Union, 20s–2010s Notes Index

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Book Synopsis* Why has 'the discursive turn' been sidelined in the development of a social theory of disability, and what has been the result of this?* How might a social theory of disability which fully incorporates the multidimensional and multifunctional role of language be described?* What would such a theory contribute to a more inclusive understanding of 'discourse' and 'culture'?The idea that disability is socially created has, in recent years, been increasingly legitimated within social, cultural and policy frameworks and structures which view disability as a form of social oppression. However, the materialist emphasis of these frameworks and structures has sidelined the growing recognition of the central role of language in social phenomena which has accompanied the 'linguistic turn' in social theory. As a result, little attention has been paid within Disability Studies to analysing the role of language in struggle and transformation in power relations and the engineering oTrade Review"Most new books recycle existing thought, but occasionallya book comes along which offers a new set of ideas and a fresh perspective. This international compilation does both: it provides the familiar alongside the normal." - The Times Educational Supplement "Disability and the Dilemmas of Education and Justice pulls no punches. It is a relentless critique of our current special educational needs system and of those who work in it." - Special Children "A thought provoking and interesting book, that raises many valuable issues. Certainly worth a read for all involved in special education." - Education Review "I have for over 30 years been concerned with the education of students with a variety of disabilities and of various degrees of disability, andbelieved that I had acquired a knowledge of most of theproblems experienced by disabled people. However, after reading the essays containedin this book my eyes have been opened to a myriad of other problems experienced by them, and for me the essays have opened up new avenues of thought on education as it affects disabled students.The writing of this book has long been overdue." - EducationToday "...a must for students...It brings special needs into the wide cultural arena which seems to me to be where it must be located as we moveinto the twenty-first century." - British Educational Research Journal "This book is stronglyrecommendedto anyone involved in special education." - Educational Research "...a book that will inform and enlighten even the most veteran and knowledgeable members of the special education profession...At the same time, it is written in sufficient detail and with enough background information to allow its ideas to be accessible to newcomers or lay readers. Its authors'perspectives are fresh, informed by multiple sources and disciplines." - Qualitative Studies in EducationTable of ContentsSeries editor's prefaceIntroductionreclaiming language in disability studiesPart one: Personal narrativesInside aphasiaThe wind gets in my wayI am more than my wheelsDepressed and disabledsome discursive problems with mental illnessNarrative identity and the disabled selfPart two: The social creation of disability identityWhy can't you be normal for once in your life? From a problem with no name to the emergency of a new category of differenceUnless otherwise stateddiscourses of labelling and identity in coming outCarving out a place to actacquired impairment and contested identityDiscourse and identitydisabled children in mainstream high schoolsTransforming disability identity through critical literacy and the cultural politics of languageTalking 'tragedy'identity issues in the parental story of disabilityPart three: Cultural discoursesStudying disability rhetoricallyModern slogan, ancient scriptdisability in the Chinese languageBodies, brains and behaviourthe return of the three stooges in learning disabilityJoseph F. Sullivan and the discourse of 'crippledom' in progressive AmericaArt and lies? Representations of disability on filmWhat they don't tell people with learning difficultiesFinal accounts and the parasite peopleDisability discourse, the principle of optimization and social changeBiographical notesReferencesIndex.

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Book SynopsisA father's account of his daughter, who has Down's Syndrome, growing up into a young adult and taking her place in the world. Published in association with the Down's Syndrome Association, to tie in with World Down's Syndrome Day, 21 March 2018.

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Book SynopsisSince the enactment of P.L. 94-142, the predecessor legislation to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), in 1975, the federal government has played a prominent role in encouraging the principle of educational equality for children with disabilities through a permanent, broad-scale federal assistance program. The IDEA is a grants statute that provides federal funding for the education of children with disabilities and requires, as a condition for the receipt of such funds, that states agree to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE; i.e., specially designed instruction provided at no cost to the parents that meets the needs of a child with a disability) to every eligible child. The transition from high school to the workforce can be a challenging time for students, and particularly for those with disabilities who may need additional services or guidance to achieve their goals. Studies have found that some employers are reluctant to hire people with disabilities, due, for example, to their perceptions about the costs of accommodations or the work capacity of people with disabilities. Studies have also found that many individuals with significant disabilities have been employed in sheltered workshops, where they are segregated from other employees and may be paid less than minimum wage.

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Book SynopsisDisability research is important for the individual and the family, but certainly also for the society that has to adapt and facilitate an easier life and better service for this segment of our populations. For example, research showed significant disparities in the prevalence of disability between urban and rural residents, which can guide society to provide better service. Epidemiology and survey research can be important tools for public health focus and intervention and guide policy makers to allocate budgets and service facilities and expertise. In this book, we have gathered research on various aspects of disability from Malaysia, India, Ghana, Kenya, Portugal, Bangladesh, Thailand and Nigeria, which we hope will be of interest to the reader.Table of ContentsFor more information, please visit our website at:https://novapublishers.com/shop/disability-international-aspects/

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Book SynopsisDisability can be transient, partly or permanent and take many forms and shapes. Disability can be a mental or physical illness or a condition that affects a major life function over the long term. Disability is a term also used in the labor market and worker compensation field to describe any lasting impairment that remains after a worker has been treated and allowed time to recover. A permanent disability could be as severe as the loss of an eye or as moderate as a broken leg that healed leaving the inability to walk normally. In this book we have gathered research on various aspects of disability and rehabilitation from Spain, United States of America, Brazil, Singapore, Cyprus, Malaysia, Italy, Japan and Manipal, which we hope will be of interest to the reader.

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Book Synopsis"India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by area, the second-most populous country, and the most populous democracy in the world. In this book we have gathered research papers from India concerned with disability research and prevention issues, health issues, rural health care, childhood immunisation and studies carried out in the slum areas of Delhi. We hope this research will be of interest to the reader"--

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Book SynopsisCovers a broad range of topics by researchers from several countries, including Canada, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. The selection of papers reflects current research trends and applications at the intersection of disability and health. The book contains disability-related topics stretching across the life span from childhood obesity and the assessment of health and function in older adults. It is a core principle of ''Disability and Health'' publications to combine the expertise of researchers from various disciplinary backgrounds including psychology, sociology, public health, health services research, health policy, disability studies, medicine, and rehabilitation research.

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Book SynopsisThe objective of this book is to advance awareness and sensitivity towards the special social and personal needs of people with all kinds of disabilities, of all ages, from infancy to adulthood. It proposes a theoretical background for understanding the situation of people with disabilities. It also introduces an innovative, practical work method, i.e., the CIL which helps this population cope with the social and personal hardships it faces. This book is intended to serve as a tool for anyone engaged in promoting the welfare of people with disabilities. In summary: the book is based on theory and research, including the experience of practical application. It discusses the implications of the theory for universal practice and draws on real-work examples and practices to illustrate points.

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Book SynopsisThis book explores the ability of persons with disabilities to live independently in affordable, accessible housing. This became a prominent issue starting in 1999 as the result of a Supreme Court decision, Olmstead v. L.C., in which the court held that institutionalisation of persons with mental disabilities in lieu of community-based care may constitute discrimination. Shortly after the Olmstead decision, the President announced the New Freedom Initiative, an effort through multiple federal agencies to ensure full participation in society of persons with disabilities. Thus, this book discusses the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)and a number of its programs that provide housing for persons with disabilities in various ways.

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Book SynopsisThis book looks at the state of housing for people with disabilities with the intent to provide recommendations that can improve housing opportunities. The research contained in this book provides a comprehensive overview of the state of housing in the 21st century and answers important questions about the current housing needs and options for people with disabilities living in the United States. Affordable, accessible, and appropriate housing is critical and integral to making a community more liveable for people with disabilities.

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Book SynopsisFor Americans with disabilities, no less than for all other citizens, the opportunity to earn a living and be self-supporting is a universally held goal. Yet in perhaps no area of public policy has the expectations gap so stubbornly resisted our efforts to achieve equality. Whatever set of statistics one chooses from among the varying estimates of employment rates for Americans with disabilities, the rate and level of employment for this population remain far too low. These employment and earnings gaps are a substantial public and policy concern. A lack of employment opportunities limits the ability of many people with disabilities to fully participate in society, as employment plays a number of important roles and functions for individuals. This book comprehensively reviews the issues integral to the employment of people with disabilities.

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Book SynopsisThe National Longitudinal Transition Study-2 (NLTS2), was initiated in 2001 to provide a national picture of the characteristics and experiences of youth with disabilities, including their self-representations of themselves, their schooling, their personal relationships, and their hopes for the future. This book presents findings drawn from the first time data was collected directly from youth on these topics; they were ages 15 through 19 at the time (2003). The large majority of information reported comes from responses of youth with disabilities either to a telephone interview or to a self-administered mail survey, which contained a subset of key items from the telephone interview.

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Book SynopsisThe largest sources of federal funding for elementary and secondary education are the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA), and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The ESEA provides funding and services for a broad population of students, including disadvantaged students, migrant students, neglected and delinquent students, and students with limited English proficiency. Approximately 6 million students with disabilities aged 6 through 21 attend elementary and secondary schools; however they are not afforded special services under the ESEA due to their disability status. Both the ESEA and IDEA aim to improve the educational outcomes for students with disabilities. The ways in which they do this sometimes differ, and when the laws are not fully or clearly aligned it can be difficult for educators to plan and execute an appropriate education for these students. This book highlights the federal issues and policies pertaining to the education of students with disabilities.

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Book SynopsisOnce upon a time, paediatrics was involved with infectious disease and acute disorders, but a new pattern of morbidity has emerged. Social difficulties, behavioural problems, developmental difficulties, disabilities and chronic disease have become main parts of the scope of paediatric practice. Among adults, multiple chronic disease is increasingly prevalent, whereas the prevalence of impairment and disability remain stable, but substantial and therefore, present day health professionals must be aware of disability and chronic disease. Just a few decades ago, children born with significant congenital anomalies or genetic and metabolic diseases perished at an early age and very few survived into their teens and even less into adulthood. Congenital heart disease, major errors in metabolism, cancer, cystic fibrosis and many other major diseases were fatal. Because of that, many physicians in adult primary care did not have the opportunity to see patients with these problems and thus were unable to learn how to care for them. With major advancements in medical knowledge, technology, imaging techniques, surgical skills and pharmaceutical products as well as prosthetic devices, many of these patients now live much longer lives and sometimes even close to the average life expectancy for the country, at least in the developed world. With that, a new medical care challenge has been created and we have to take a life span approach.

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Book SynopsisStates and localities have not invested adequate resources, planning, or training to meet architectural and physical access compliance standards required to increase participation and improve the experience of voters with disabilities. The book documents the experiences of voters with disabilities during the 2012 general election cycle and offers concrete policy and procedural recommendations to improve voter participation and accessibility for citizens with disabilities now and in future elections.

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Book SynopsisThe use of virtual reality for learning, training, and rehabilitation for people with special needs has been on the rise in recent years. Virtual reality allows the user to be trained, to gather information and to perform rehabilitation tasks in the virtual reality space. It allows the user to perform independently, safely, and efficiently, in a combined product of sensory, motor, and cognitive skills. The design, development, and evaluation of such virtual reality environments is a multidisciplinary work, the integration of medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, neuroscience, psychology, education, engineering, computer science, and art. In this book we cover a broad range of topics from virtual reality-augmented therapy in the development of cognitive neuroscience perspectives on motor rehabilitation, the potential of virtual environments to improve orientation and mobility skills for people who are blind, virtual reality for people with cerebral palsy, haptic virtual reality technologies for visual impairment and blindness, perception of space and subsequent design changes needed for accessibility, autism spectrum disorder to improving cognitive and intellectual skills via virtual environments in a range of different topics such as mathematical performance or prospective memory.

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Book SynopsisOver the past twenty years, groups of therapists, researchers and engineers have seized the potential of virtual reality (VR) and its associated technologies to work together on designing and testing a great variety of rehabilitation devices and systems with the objective of improving the support for people with disabilities. Virtual reality technologies offer new paradigms for human exploration, understanding and support by providing participants a safe setting in which they can interact and develop goal-oriented activities within functional-virtual environments, especially when they find themselves in situations of cognitive, behavioural or motor disabilities. The solutions built from these technologies reduce patients'' limitations of activity and participation by promoting the recovery of capabilities. The current diversification of VR technology can also lead to tools used at home so that the patient can pursue the training that was initiated with the therapist in the care centre. In this book you will find research on the rehabilitation in motor, cognitive and sensorial disorders.

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Book SynopsisIntellectual disability is characterised by deficits in cognitive and adaptive abilities that initially manifest before 18 years of age. The prevalence of intellectual disability is estimated to be between 1 and 3 out of every 100 individuals in the general population. Most individuals have mild intellectual disability and the cause is generally not identified. A small percentage of individuals have severe deficits and will need lifetime supports. The diagnosis of intellectual disability requires formal psychometric testing to assess the intelligence quotient and adaptive functioning. The management of individuals who have intellectual disability is based on providing general medical care, treatment of specific behavioral symptoms, early intervention, special education, and variable degrees of community based supports. In this book we present some current issues in intellectual and developmental disability.

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Book SynopsisPolicymakers and program operators have long worked to understand how state and federal programs can best serve low-income families in which one parent or more has a disability. The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, administered by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), serves low-income families, some of whom include individuals who have disabilities or other work limitations. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), serves low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled. Though these two programs have overlapping goals of supporting low-income people with disabilities, while encouraging self-sufficiency and employment, they have key differences in approach, structure, and definitions that pose challenges to coordination. This book describes how TANF agencies work with participants who have a disability and how they interact with local SSA offices; presents findings from analyses of merged TANF and SSI data, documenting the extent to which adult TANF recipients are connected with the SSI system and how they contribute to the overall dynamics of caseload changes in SSI; and describes the implementation and findings of three promising pilot interventions.

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Book SynopsisPhysical inactivity has been recognised as one of the common modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes. Increased level of physical activity is very effective for health maintenance. In this book, experts from all over the world present evidence for therapeutic physical activities illustrated by different cases. Physical activity can serve as both a preventive measure and a rehabilitation tool. The contents of this book cover the benefits of physical activity from young children with cerebral palsy to older adults with Parkinson''s disease. Some chapters focus on specific illness, such as asthma; others study more popular problems like lower back pain. Furthermore, fall risks increase with age. It is a growing problem among the elders, their family, the community, the governments, and the world at large. There is a chapter in this book discussing this issue specifically. Individuals with one of the impairments touched upon in this book, as well as their families, doctors and other health workers can benefit from its contents. The topics of this book include kidney disease, coronary or peripheral artery disease, asthma, vestibular impairments, obstructive sleep apnea, cancer, lower back pain, Alzheimer''s disease, dementia, Parkinson''s disease, risk of falls, autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy. Students and researchers can use this book as reference when they investigate the effects of physical activity as a preventive measure or therapeutic modality for other populations.

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Book SynopsisSocial Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a social insurance program that provides benefits to insured workers under the full retirement age who meet the statutory test of disability and to their eligible dependents. Unlike some other federal programs, benefit payments and administrative costs associated with the SSDI program are paid not out of the General Fund but from a dedicated Federal Disability Insurance (DI) Trust Fund in the U.S. Treasury. This book provides an overview of the DI trust fund and examines potential solutions to improve the DI trust fund''s solvency in the short term. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has policies and procedures in place for detecting and preventing fraud with regard to disability benefit claims. This book reviews how well SSA''s policies and procedures are designed and implemented to detect and prevent physician-assisted fraud; and the steps SSA is taking to improve its ability to prevent physician-assisted fraud.

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Book SynopsisThis book is the result of an interagency workgroup tasked with developing a strategy to support students and youth with disabilities in reaching their goals of economic empowerment and independence as they transition to adulthood. It focuses on five Federal systems that play key and inter-related roles in preparing youth with disabilities as they transition into adulthood - vocational rehabilitation, social security, juvenile justice, behavioral health, and workforce investment. The book summarizes eachsystems role, the extent of its use by the population, and central programs and authorizing legislation. In addition, challenges and recommendations for each system are identified, as are common themes and trends across systems. Moreover, the book provides information on the challenges students with disabilities may face accessing federally funded transition services; and the extent to which federal agencies coordinate their transition activities.

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