Philosophic considerations of quality of life for the disabled.

All of us are concerned not only about the length of our lives but also about having meaningful lives. The quality of living rather than longevity is the significant consideration. For all of us a certain level of physical and material well-being, safety, and health is necessary as the basis for a satisfying life. However, that level is only the physical foundation on which we build the meaningful relationships, the social interaction, and the personal participation that provide the same fulfillment that is the epitome of quality of life. The disabled patient has a greater problem in achieving a satisfactory quality of life. He has lost, or possibly never had, the physical capacity for the necessary responses to establish and maintain the relationships, interactions, and participation that healthy persons have. As a consequence he is dependent upon the rehabilitation team to provide assistance and services to make it possible for him to achieve his optimal level of performance as the basis for the quality of his life.