Translating Evidence into Practice: A Physical Rehabilitation Clinical Practice Guideline for Adults with Developmental Disabilities Using a Lifespan Approach

Introduction Children with developmental disabilities are living longer due to improved medical technology and healthcare delivery. Consequently, the population of adults with disabilities has increased. Living well into their thirties, forties and sometimes fifties and still having parental caregivers, they have aged out of pediatric care, although ultimately still require specialty care to ensure continued health and basic function. It is common for these individuals to rely on their pediatrician and pediatric physical therapist for services, yet pediatric facilities are not appropriate for adults. The equipment is not tailored to them, they are not surrounded by their peers and the clinical staff is often not skilled in treating their unique, age-specific needs.