In an effort to indicate the needs and goals of residential care for the mentally handicapped, the booklet defines residential care and presents a statement of its purpose. Discussed are conditions under which residential care is appropriate, the legal rights of the individual, needed services, regional and community resources, and the living environment. Additional topics concern architectural design needs, programs and research, administrative and management services, advisory services, technology and new methodology for improvement, and parent and citizen volunteer workers. (JM)