The Economics of Disability

This book brings together research relating to the economics of disability in Ireland in order to provide evidence that can help improve disability policies, services and supports. In doing so, it addresses a number of key questions of relevance to the economic circumstances of people with disabilities, with particular emphasis on the relationship between disability and social inclusion, poverty, the labour market, living standards and public policy. Importantly, it also incorporates a life cycle perspective on disability, considering issues of specific relevance to children, working-age adults and older people with disabilities. It also focuses on issues relating to resource allocation and to wider society, while the book also presents a number of contributions focusing on mental health. This book fills a significant gap in the literature concerning the economics of disability, both in Ireland and internationally. We adopt a relatively broad perspective and explore a range of issues and debates of relevance to the economics of disability using recently available data and new up-to-date research. Each chapter presents a clear and relatively non-technical treatment of the specific topic under consideration, making it accessible to a greater number of interested readers. In doing so, it provides an important addition to our knowledge and understanding of the economics of disability and will serve as a useful and up-to-date resource for policymakers, advocates, researchers, academics and students, across a range of disciplines, both in Ireland and internationally.