Understanding Disability A Lifespan Approach [Paperback]

Beginning with infancy and the diagnosis of congenital or early onset disabilities, this book identifies traditional developmental life stages for those with disabilities as well as the impact of disability at each of these periods. It then provides specific information for four different disabilities: Down's syndrome, visual impairment, cerebral palsy and spina bifida. Spinal cord injury at the young adult stage of development is also included. With this knowledge, the reader can determine expected age-appropriate activities and accomplishments as well as some adapted expectations.

In keeping with a social work emphasis on strengths, the book is based on a social, rather than medical, model of disability. The informationBeginning with infancy and the diagnosis of congenital or early onset disabilities, this book identifies traditional developmental life stages for those with disabilities as well as the impact of disability at each of these periods. It then provides specific information for four different disabilities: Down's syndrome, visual impairment, cerebral palsy and spina bifida. Spinal cord injury at the young adult stage of development is also included. With this knowledge, the reader can determine expected age-appropriate activities and accomplishments as well as some adapted expectations.

In keeping with a social work emphasis on strengths, the book is based on a social, rather than medical, model of disability. The informationPART ONE: INFANTS AND CHILDREN
Infancy
Birth to Six Months
Toddler
Six Months to Two Years
Pre-School
Two to Five Years
School Age
Six to Twelve Years
PART TWO: TEENS AND ADULTS
Adolescence
13 to 19 Years
Young Adult
19-35 Years
Middle Adult
36-65 Years
Older Adultlc,