Utilization of aging network services by elderly persons with mental retardation

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Disability Services

Background:

• The aging network provides essential services to elderly populations.
• Understanding service utilization by elderly persons with mental retardation is crucial for equitable resource allocation.
• Previous research has not fully detailed the extent of service use by this demographic within the aging network.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the utilization rates of aging network services by elderly individuals with mental retardation in Massachusetts.
• To identify characteristics of programs serving this population.
• To discuss policy implications for improving service access and delivery.

Main Methods:

• A mailed survey was distributed to 373 programs across eight service types within the Massachusetts aging network.
• Data collected focused on service utilization in 1987.
• Analysis included identifying programs serving clients with mental retardation and comparing characteristics between serving and non-serving programs.

Main Results:

• In 1987, 52% of surveyed programs had provided services to elderly persons with mental retardation.
• In two specific service types, clients with mental retardation comprised at least 10% of the total caseload.
• Distinct characteristics differentiated programs that served this population from those that did not.

Conclusions:

• A substantial portion of the aging network in Massachusetts served elderly individuals with mental retardation.
• Certain services experienced significant demand from this demographic.
• Findings underscore the need for targeted policies to enhance service accessibility and responsiveness for elderly persons with mental retardation.