There are an increasing number of young people with a range of life-limiting impairments in our schools, colleges, universities and communities. One of these impairments is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare, life-limiting genetic muscle-wasting impairment that affects predominantly males. Twenty years ago, most people with DMD did not live…

This mixed-methods study analyzed data collected from a higher education pilot program intended to foster preparation for greater independence with students with intellectual disabilities (ID). Pearson's Quality of Life Inventory (QOLI) (Frisch, 1994) was administered to five program participants with high functioning intellectual disabilities…

Individuals with severe disabilities often face significant challenges after high school. During the last years of secondary school, transition teams develop plans for individuals who are receiving special education services. Little is known about the outcomes of those efforts. In this qualitative multiple case study, the researcher examined the…

Background: This study explores the quality of life (QoL) of individuals with a severe intellectual disability (ID) who had recently moved from an institutional setting (i.e., "residential campus") to independent housing in the community (i.e., "community living") and whether aspects of their QoL were perceived to have changed…

Secondary data analysis was used to develop and examine disability-related differences in outcome constructs from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2. Findings suggest that outcome constructs could be created that represented key elements of quality of life domains including social relationships, financial independence, financial…

Secondary data analysis was used to develop and examine disability-related differences in outcome constructs from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2 (NLTS2). Findings suggest that outcome constructs could be created that represented key elements of quality of life domains including social relationships, financial independence, financial…

Children who are deafblind are one of the lowest-incidence yet most diverse groups receiving services mandated by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act. Despite this population's diversity, the development of communication skills is critical for all children who are deafblind, and is the foundation on which good transition…

A survey of 89 post secondary youth with intellectual impairments exiting a college based school-to-work program tracked school and post school experiences to identify significant correlates and predictors of post school outcomes. The three significant predictors were self-determination training, course taking patterns, and home care skills…

The transition from school services to adulthood can be particularly difficult for many adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although some individuals with ASD are able to successfully transition, most are faced with significant obstacles in multiple areas as they attempt to negotiate their way into college, work, community…

This paper describes an initiative launched in New South Wales, Australia, in 1989 to help students with disabilities move from school to community settings. The program established partnerships among schools, communities, service providers, and government agencies, resulting in smoother transitions and improved postschool options and quality of…

This article addresses transition needs of individuals with learning disabilities in such areas as maintaining a home, becoming appropriately involved in the community (including recreation and leisure activities), and experiencing satisfactory personal and social relationships. It reviews research on adult adjustment, highlights existing…

This workbook is intended to help parents plan for the adult life of their developmentally disabled son or daughter. Much of the book's content is presented in the form of exercises and activities. Part 1 focuses on overall planning and considers living options, working options, and leisure options available in most communities. It offers…

This guide was developed to provide an overview of the major elements of the transition planning process from school to the adult system of supports and services for youth with developmental disabilities and their families. The workbook format is intended to enable families to be proactive at each stage of the planning process. Initial sections…

This paper describes implementation of a transition program which resulted in the successful movement of eight young mentally retarded adults from a segregated residential setting to a supervised apartment program in the community. The youth and their families visited the apartments and jointly made the decision to participate in the program. They…