Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Strategies for Occupational Therapy

As rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continue to rise and the needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) become increasingly complex, a comprehensive, client-centered approach to service delivery is imperative. Rather than a disability-focused text, this new book seeks to promote principles of best practices and self-determination through an occupational therapy lens.<BR> <P>Broad in scope, Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities focuses on facilitating quality of life and intervening in effective, evidence-based ways with people with IDD, including those with ASD, adolescents transitioning to adulthood, aging adults, and people with dual diagnoses. Principles and terminology from the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process are used, along with the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 to provide the most up-to-date information currently available on adults with IDD. Case examples and practitioners' reflections allow readers to understand how the presented material is applied in practical, real-world ways.<BR> <P>Emphasizing occupation in promoting health and quality of life, this new publication addresses the complex needs and issues of this important population, including facilitating quality of life, considerations with specialty populations, and innovative approaches to intervention.

Kristine Haertl, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN.