REHABILITATION OF ADULTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL-DISABILITIES - AN OCCUPATIONAL-THERAPY PERSPECTIVE

Aging adults with developmental disabilities are subject to the same l osses in functional ability as typically aging adults. Cognitive delay s and poor ability to respond to change because of cognitive rigidity make their rehabilitation even more difficult. Occupational therapy, w ith its traditional emphasis on functional ability, is able to modify activities and the environment to accommodate these problems and facil itate functional outcomes. With its holistic approach, occupational th erapy promotes both the physical and mental health of this population.