The social factors brought out by the Social Summary are equally important (refer
to Appendix A—Social Summary at the end of this chapter). The Summary conveys basic
information about the applicant which will have bearing on the type of activity a
person with his impairment can or cannot realistically perform or be trained to perform.
For example:
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a.
The person's age and actual educational level will give some idea of the amount of
time that will be necessary to involve him in some type of useful occupation within
his competence.
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b.
The individual's education and employment background will give an indication of the
person's drive and achievement level.
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c.
The client's attitude toward and acceptance of his disability as well as his desire
and plans for rehabilitation will give a suggestion as to his prognosis and advisability
of services.
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d.
When possible some idea of the type of employment available in the community and
the person's attitude toward moving to an area more favorable for employment is helpful
when determining the individual's eligibility.
When we speak of useful occupation in terms of employment, we refer to a marketable effort in demand in the community, that can compete with others on the market, that is extended in normal working conditions
and that requires no special considerations. In regard to this area, the Summary will
be useful in conveying the applicant's feelings concerning his ability to work consistently
without long rest breaks, special equipment or any special consideration.
As mentioned in our definition, useful occupation can also refer to homemaking. If
this is the individual's accustomed or expected role, the summary will indicate the
problems preventing the applicant from assuming this role.
All of the social factors in the Social Summary are important in indicating how much
of a handicap the disability is to this particular individual.