Objective The objective of this paper is to describe how the ICF framework was applied as the foundation for a longitudinal study of changes in quality-of-life (QoL) for youth with chronic conditions. Method This article will describe the study’s aims, methods, measures and data analysis techniques. It will point out how the ICF framework was used—and expanded upon—to provide a model for studying the impact of factors on changes in QoL for youth with chronic conditions. Further, it will describe the instruments that were chosen to measure the components of the ICF framework and the data analysis techniques that will be used to examine the impact of factors on changes in youths’ QoL. Conclusions Qualitative and longitudinal designs for studying QoL based on the ICF framework can be useful for unraveling the complex ongoing inter-relationships among functioning, contextual factors and individuals’ perceptions of their QoL.

This article presents a life needs model of pediatric service delivery that is based on the values of the intrinsic worth, dignity, and strengths of individuals. This developmental, socio-ecological model outlines the major types of service delivery needs of children and youth with disabilities, their families, and their communities within three spheres of life (the personal, interpersonal, and external spheres). The model legitimizes the concept of need, emphasizes the values of family-centered services, and recognizes child and family strengths and capacities. We discuss the utility of this transdisciplinary model in guiding pediatric service delivery to meet the long-range goals of community participation and quality of life of children and youth with disabilities.

The effect of a nutrition education program on knowledge and self-care behavior in a group of individuals with diabetes was evaluated. The nutrition education program was developed using outlines and knowledge tests produced by the University of Michigan Diabetes Research and Training Center. The program, sponsored by the American Diabetes Association, Akron Chapter, was presented free of charge to Northeast Ohio area residents. Forty-four individuals participated in the study. Results indicated a statistically significant (p < 0.01) gain in knowledge but no statistically significant change in eating behavior for the sample. However, post-food records indicated that the mean for the percentage of total kcalories (kcals) from protein and fat (ie, 20% and 28%, respectively) were within the American Diabetes Association's recommendations of no more than 20% of kcals from protein and 30% of kcals from fat. In addition, the percentage of kcals from carbohydrate and the recommended total number of kcals improved toward the recommended levels.

This article presents a life needs model of pediatric service delivery that is based on the values of the intrinsic worth, dignity, and strengths of individuals. This developmental, socio-ecological model outlines the major types of service delivery needs of children and youth with disabilities, their families, and their communities within three spheres of life (the personal, interpersonal, and external spheres). The model legitimizes the concept of need, emphasizes the values of family-centered services, and recognizes child and family strengths and capacities. We discuss the utility of this transdisciplinary model in guiding pediatric service delivery to meet the long-range goals of community participation and quality of life of children and youth with disabilities.

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