The mentally retarded infant. Is placement feasible?

Area of Science:

• Developmental Disabilities Research
• Public Health Policy
• Social Services Administration

Background:

• In 1968, significant gaps existed in services for infants with intellectual disabilities.
• Access to appropriate care and support for families was a growing concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the availability and uniformity of placement resources for mentally retarded infants across California.
• To identify barriers families faced in accessing necessary support services.

Main Methods:

• A statewide questionnaire was distributed in 1968 to public agencies in all 58 California counties.
• The survey focused on the availability of counseling, placement, and financial aid resources.

Main Results:

• Placement resources, including counseling and financial aid, were not uniformly available to all population segments.
• Financial assistance for out-of-home placement was limited, potentially available in less than 25% of counties for non-medically indigent families.
• Inadequate knowledge of available resources led to inappropriate inter-agency referrals.

Conclusions:

• The study revealed significant disparities in resource availability for infants with intellectual disabilities in California.
• There was a critical need for improved information dissemination and equitable distribution of services.
• Policy interventions were necessary to ensure consistent access to care and support for affected families.