About the presentation:
Quality of Life (QoL) is defined by the World Health Organization as an individual’s perception of their life position within cultural and personal contexts, influenced by relationships, health, safety, autonomy, community inclusion, and meaningful engagement.
The presentation will focus on the QoL of adults living with autism and intellectual disabilities, emphasizing its importance in service provision. The presenters will discuss why QoL is crucial for individuals diagnosed with autism and other disabilities and the direct impact to the individual’s well-being, independence, and overall fulfillment.
The presentation will examine QoL through ethical principles such as compassion, dignity, and respect, aligning with professional values like beneficence and integrity. The presenters will also discuss how to integrate contemporary care models at it relates to; compassionate care, cultural responsiveness, trauma-informed care, and assent to illustrate how these variables shape service delivery.
Throughout the presentation, the presenters will offer practical, evidence-based strategies for enhancing QoL through individualized support and advocacy, promoting autonomy and self-direction for a more fulfilling life.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will be able to identify strategies to support individuals with autism and other disabilities in ways that upholds humanity, dignity and compassion.
- Participants will be able to identify strategies to support assertiveness and choice making to empower others.
- Participants will be able to describe how to incorporate various quality of life indicators into an individualized service delivery model.
About the presenters:
Paul Waga
Paul is the Senior Director at Melmark Pennsylvania and oversees delivery of quality support and services to all the Melmark Adult Facilities in PA. He has extensive experience working in licensed facilities both on campus-based and in community-based settings. Paul earned a bachelors’ degree in psychology from Rowan University, NJ and a master’s degree in public policy from Drexel University, PA. Since joining Melmark, Paul received his master’s degree in Education in Applied Behavior Analysis from Endicott College and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Paul brings more than 22 years of experience in the field of intellectual disabilities and Autism. When Paul is not focused on service delivery to the individuals entrusted to his care, you will find him with his significant other in Chestertown, Maryland enjoying gardening and the Sassafras River. Paul also enjoys traveling to Kenya, Africa where he as a large extended family.
Ashley Benedetto, MEd, BCBA
Ashley is an accomplished leader in the field of special education and applied behavior analysis, with a career spanning over a decade in diverse roles across educational, residential, vocational, and community-based programs. She has a strong background in program development, staff training, and the implementation of evidence-based instructional and behavioral strategies.
Ashley’s career began in direct support roles, where she developed a deep understanding of individualized care and behavioral interventions. She has since progressed through various leadership positions, including Program Manager, Behavior Specialist, Assistant Director, and Director roles, each providing her with valuable experience in managing diverse programs and teams. Currently, Ashley serves as the Senior Director of Educational Services at Melmark PA, where she oversees comprehensive educational programs, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and best practices in special education. In this role, she is responsible for strategic planning, program evaluation, and fostering inclusive learning environments that empower students to reach their full potential.
Ashley holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from West Chester University and a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Temple University. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), utilizes a data-informed approach to educational leadership, focusing on personalized instruction, evidence-based behavioral supports, and the effective supervision and development of staff.
Ashley is committed to ongoing professional development and collaboration to enhance educational programming and improve outcomes for individuals with special needs.