SU’s Pamela Walker co-authors guide to improving quality of life for adults with disabilities

SU’s Pamela Walker co-authors guide to improving quality of life for adults with disabilitiesAugust 01, 2007Patrick Farrellpmfarrel@syr.edu

A new book by Pamela Walker of Syracuse University’s Center on Human Policy and Indiana University education professor Patricia Rogan offers an in-depth guide to promoting active, rewarding and meaningful lifestyles for adults with disabilities. Tackling such issues as employment, transition from school to adult life, postsecondary education and social relationships, “Make the Day Matter!: Promoting Typical Lifestyles for Adults with Significant Disabilities” (Brookes, 2007) compiles the most current best practices into a guidebook for supporting fulfilling lives for all adults.

The book is intended as a resource for service providers working with adults with significant disabilities.

Walker — who has been associated with the Center on Human Policy since 1985 and is involved with information, dissemination, research and training activities — says there has been a gap in the literature, with many books focusing on employment, but few addressing employment as well as other meaningful daytime engagements.

“Many people with developmental disabilities live in the community today, rather than in institutional facilities,” says Walker. “Even so, a large number have little choice and control with regard to pursuit of meaningful work and other engagements and spend their daytimes in segregated facilities, performing work that is meaningless to them or sitting at home with nothing to do.” The book maintains that this issue needs further attention and must be addressed through collaboration across service systems.

Walker has authored numerous research reports, articles and book chapters on community living and inclusive recreation, and has received an award from the American Camping Association for one of those papers. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the community participation and social networks of people with disabilities, and an article based on this was published in JASH.

“Make the Day Matter” begins with a historical background on approaches to disability in the United States, explaining the different movements and laws that have shaped the present status of adults with disabilities. It then looks at the most current research to identify what works in creating opportunities for full citizenship and community participation.

To speak with Walker, contact Steven Taylor at the Center on Human Policy, Law and Disability Studies, (315) 443-3851 or staylo01@syr.edu.

More information about the book is available online at http://www.brookespublishing.com/…ker-67137/index.htm.