THE SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF RELOCATION ON THE INTELLECTUALLY DISABLED

This social work study reports on the immediate effects of relocation on a small group of intellectually disabled clients. Results revealed an increase in the short term on clients' overall level of activity an d their skills in relation to recreation and leisure. Most importantly , clients reported being happier in the community. On the other hand, there was no evidence of improvement on a standardized measure of qual ity of life, although this finding must be treated with caution given the small sample size and large amount of within-group variance. Anoth er area of concern was the short-term decline in appropriate social be haviors. This finding underscores the importance of transitional socia l skills training and rehearsal as clients move from institutions to t he community.