I used three studies that suggest different approaches, which will help increase the daily lives of the mentally challenged. The first study, Howe, Horner, Newton (1995) examined two environments, a supportive and a traditional environment. This study was done to determine, which environment offers a higher quality of life. They found that people living in a supportive setting showed a higher quality of life in terms of social and community activities. The second study, Stancliffe, Hayden, Lakin (1998) analyzed the effectiveness and quality of Individual Habilitation Plan (IHP) objectives. They found that there was no considerable change in outcomes when using IHPs. The last study, Stancliffe (1995) investigated the significance of living- unit size and staff presence, in terms of residents choice making. They found that unit- size and staff presence are crucial predictors of choice- making. These three studies illustrate important factors that will help increase the daily lives of the mentally challenged. There are many factors that can help increase the daily lives of the mentally challenged. I will first examine the role in which the environment plays in enhancing their daily lives. I will then look at the effectiveness of having an Individual Habilitation Plan. Finally, I will discuss factors that will facilitate the choice- making process.The first study was done to compare supported living and traditional residential services. Howe et al., (1990) randomly selected 40 adults with mental retardation that were receiving state funded residential support. They then divided them into two groups based on a certain criteria- supported and traditional living. Next, they sent a letter out describing the study, and requesting the participation of staff members. The staff members were then interviewed, to help determine 12 features that will represent supportive living. For 11 of the statements they used a scale of 1to 5, 5 meaning they s...
