The Quality of Life Supports Model as a major component in applying the quality of life paradigm

Abstract

Social change is built on paradigms and models. A paradigm needs an operational action model to successfully implement the paradigm, and an operational model needs a paradigm to give it credibility and content. This article describes the Quality of Life Supports Model (QOLSM) as a major pathway for applying the quality of life (QOL) paradigm. The QOLSM integrates the concepts of QOL and individualized supports. The article describes and illustrates: (a) the four elements of the QOLSM (core values, individual and family QOL domains, systems of supports, and facilitating conditions); and (b) the use of the QOLSM in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) as a framework for supports provision. The article also discusses how the QOLSM represents a value‐based and actionable model that should be effective for solving problems regarding services and supports to people with IDD, developing new knowledge, making meaningful change, being evaluated, and contributing both theoretically and operationally to the field.

Health and health care are essential to the quality of life of people with intellectual disability

“…Quality of life: As explained in more detail in another paper in this special issue by Verdugo et al (2023), the Quality of Life Supports Model is influencing how service professionals approach support provision (G omez et al, 2021a, 2021bMor an et al, 2023;Verdugo et al, 2021). The system of support indicates a broad range of resources and strategies that prevent or mitigate an ID or its effects, promote the development, education, interests, and welfare of the person with ID and their family, and enhance their well-being.…”