The concept of quality of life (QOL) has become an important public policy and service delivery issue within the mental retardation/developmental disabilities field. QOL measurement focuses on a number of personal and environmental factors, including independence, productivity, living/residential environment, interpersonal and community relationships, and activity patterns. Three implications of this emphasis on QOL are discussed: cultural factors supporting the QOL concept; the conceptualization and measurement of QOL; and QOL enhancement practices. Cultural factors supporting QOL include values, legal concepts, and the way in which issues are addressed and problems solved. A QOL model is presented, proposing that a person's perceived QOL results from three aspects of life experiences (personal characteristics, objective life conditions, and perception of significant persons about individuals with disabilities) and is reflected in the measured indicators of independence, productivity, community integration, and satisfaction. Quality of life enhancement practices are then discussed, including fostering healthy environments, implementing QOL-oriented services, and fostering natural supports. (44 references) (JDD)