Data from 43 states on policies and procedures for training direct-care staff in public and private residential programs for the mentally retarded or developmentally disabled were analyzed to evaluate state training standards, examine curriculum content and training priorities, identify program implementation problems, and identify outstanding…

Reviews methodological weaknesses of studies that evaluate alternative settings and programs for long-term care of the elderly. Argues that research should provide better information and present options to clients, service providers, and policymakers, rather than studying whether one alternative is more effective than another. (Author/MJL)

The British National Health Service faces a future in which demand for health services will outpace supply. A public nursing home service may prove to be an economical service. Alternative sources of revenue and cooperation between the public and private sector are needed. (JAC)

Characteristics of the target population, services, and potential source of helpers are determining factors in the cost effectiveness of home health services. Welfare of patients in the experimental group was improved, and lower probability of residential care helped keep costs down. (JAC)

Argues that the voices of those who have been abused in residential care need to be considered in research on child abuse in residential settings. Considers the high percentage of child perpetrators, the focus on child control and restraint rather than development, and the potential dangers of dominant, charismatic leaders, and politically…

Analysis of states' utilization of large residential settings for individuals with mental retardation and related conditions found that some states with low use of large public facilities may actually have high use of large nonpublic facilities. A chart showing utilization rates by states for various types (public and nonpublic) of large settings…

Analysis of concerns expressed by 42 members of 19 families of young adults with severe developmental disabilities indicated concerns in such areas as self-care capabilities, sexuality, and quality of residential services. Concerns in the residential domain were most predictive of overall individual and family stress. Effects of questioning…

Describes the demographic trends and health risk factors of the growing elderly population, especially poor minorities. Suggests rethinking traditional hospital and nursing home roles in health care delivery to the elderly, expanding research concerns, reworking access to Medicaid, and ensuring health care to minorities. (CJS)

Assessed effect of cognitive-behavioral program to prevent HIV/AIDS among 139 adolescents. Self-report instruments were used to assess participants' knowledge and behavior about HIV/AIDS. Intervention was found to have significant effect on knowledge about HIV/AIDS, attitudes toward prevention, and coping with high-risk situations. Changes were…

This paper explores historical and recent trends in the delivery of residential adolescent substance abuse treatment, looking specifically at the impact of managed care on the service delivery system. Three historical eras are conceptualized by the authors: (1) an era prior to managed care in which services were provided on a fee for service basis…

Based on the complementary model of support use, we investigated older adults' preferences for short-term and long-term future care needs in a U.S. and a German sample (65+ years). A greater preference for the exclusive use of informal support and for mixed support (a combination of informal and formal support) was found with regard to short-term…

Examined feasibility of employing mildly mentally retarded persons as caregivers. Observers rated competence of two female trainees in a day care center. Suggests caregiving may be a feasible employment option for some mentally retarded persons with appropriate training and placement, and advocates further research on screening and on the benefits…

Discusses highlights and implications of special theme issue on residential child care in Israel. Focuses on residential care and national development; the residential setting and the community; residential group care and the family; the group and the family in group care; group care personnel; and residential center clientele. (KH)

Deals with some of the unique aspects of rural practice in child welfare, such as the interface between juvenile justice agencies and child welfare programs, poverty, and the changing roles (especially economic) of rural women. Demonstrates urban-type programs are often not appropriate in dealing with rural problems. (Author)

Presents data regarding an approach to delinquency rehabilitation involving 24-hour residential care, various types of counseling, and individualized instruction within the adolescent's community. (Author/DB)