The manual covers the design and implementation of respite care services for families with developmentally disabled members. An introductory chapter examines the concept of respite care, notes the benefits for families, providers, and community residential programs, and places the service as one part of a comprehensive array of family support…

The document describes Lowe's syndrome, a hereditary condition that affects only males and is typically diagnosed during the first year of life. Effects of Lowe's syndrome on the eyes (cataracts, glaucoma, corneal degeneration, and strabismus) are discussed, as well as related problems with the central nervous system, muscles, kidneys, bones, and…

The booklet is intended to make handicapped persons and/or their parents aware of the principal government services for which they may be eligible. Benefits specifically applicable to blind, deaf, and developmentally disabled persons are covered. Names and addresses of the various federal agencies are included for further reference to state and…

Seven papers address the employment of individuals with mental retardation. The first cites nine values critical for employment programs, including opportunities in integrated settings and decent pay for meaningful work. The next paper offers a supported work program consisting of job placement, job-site training, ongoing assessment, and job…

The guide examines fundamental rights of mentally retarded and developmentally disabled persons. The monograph focuses on some of the central controversies of which consumers, professionals, planners, and advocates concerned with developmental disabilities should be aware. Problems of living and dying, resettlement and confinement, choice and…

The "3D" approach to providing speech/language service for developmentally delayed preschoolers involves three instructors (speech/language therapist, classroom teacher, aide) plus three motor tasks (gross, fine, oral), while bringing speech therapy into the classroom. The article discusses team planning sessions and provides a sample curriculum…

The paper proposes teaching travel skills to developmentally disabled persons based upon the principles used to teach orientation and mobility to blind people. The approach emphasizes success orientation, sequencing, fading, individualized instruction, and in vivo instruction. Content includes environmental concepts, recovery techniques,…

The controversy regarding the use of facilitated communication with individuals having developmental disabilities is addressed, and an oversight procedure for the use of this methodology is recommended, which includes informed consent from all involved, the inclusion of a validation protocol, and the inclusion of other potential means of…

This article discusses the use of sign language to facilitate language development of children with developmental disabilities mainstreamed into the early childhood setting. It discusses the benefits of using sign language, presents a rationale for its use, and provides instructional guidelines and resources. (JDD)

Presents suggestions to help school nurses intervene on behalf of students who demonstrate signs of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) and other autism-related syndromes. The paper describes autism and Asperger's syndrome and discusses how to help students with PDD. Two sidebars present PDD subtypes and signs and symptoms of Asperger's…

This guide explains, in simple language, the procedures for utilization of Colorado's developmental disabilities system. It begins with a definition of developmental disability and then explains how to contact a Community Centered Board to determine eligibility for services. The guide outlines the processes of applying for services, receiving…

The resource guide is intended to help practitioners develop curricula in human growth and development for developmentally disabled students. A matrix guide is presented for evaluating clients in three domains (social identity, health and hygiene, and physiological identity). Behavioral indicators are then noted which relate to adaptive behaviors…

Four papers explore issues related to the role of parent involvement in providing employment services to young adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. In the first paper, results of a survey of parents and guardians revealed a generally negative attitude about changes in working conditions recommended in recent federal…

This fact sheet uses a question-and-answer format to provide basic information about changes in vision for older adults and what kind of services are needed particularly adults with developmental disabilities. Questions address the following topics: the importance of eye exams for adults with developmental disabilities; the need for eye exams even…

Although older people with developmental disabilities are living longer and appearing more often as social work clients, this population has not been included in preparation for practice with older clients. Issues include relationships within and outside the family, resource availability, and care policies. A model for infusion of these issues…