This article presents the framework of a dynamic approach to quality of life (QOL) enhancement based on the conceptualization and measurement of individual-referenced quality of life. Sections of the article summarize the premises of QOL enhancement, provide the rationale for a dynamic approach to QOL enhancement, discuss six components of QOL…

The Consumer-Directed Theory of Empowerment (CDTE) is presented as a model for guiding the development and evaluation of disability policy and rehabilitation services. The major tenet of CDTE is that increased consumer direction in disability policy formulation and rehabilitation service delivery will lead to increased community integration,…

This report compares actual performance with the projected levels of performance set out in the National Council on Disability's (NCD's) annual performance plan. The findings of this report show a positive link between the allocated resources and NCD's performance. NCD's assessment review showed that it was successful in meeting its goals and…

This report describes activities of the National Council on Disability (NCD) during fiscal year 1999. Activities were focused around NCD's four strategic goals: (1) to enhance the lives of people with disabilities of all ages and backgrounds through the development of policy recommendations; (2) to educate the public and elected officials on…

This report describes activities of the National Council on Disability (NCD) during fiscal year 2001. Activities were focused around NCD's four strategic goals: (1) to enhance the lives of people with disabilities of all ages and backgrounds through the development of policy recommendations; (2) to educate the public and elected officials on…

This study, which was mandated in Title II of the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, explores issues surrounding the financing of assistive technology and examines questions of accessibility, availability, affordability, and cost-effectiveness. The study offers a paradigm of disability focusing on how specific…

This study was commissioned to determine how the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is working, what outcomes children and youth with disabilities are achieving, and how the system can be improved in the context of current education reform initiatives. Key policy themes addressed include individualized education programs, least…

Major research findings are synthesized and innovations of current concern to vocational rehabilitation professionals are reported in this document, which covers the area of independent living. Independent living is described as an integral part of the rehabilitation process for the severely disabled in which the individual is assisted in…