Presented are four papers from a conference on mental retardation and families (1971). In the first paper, research is cited to show that current educational programs do not adequately exploit children's potential, and that child centered programs which ignore family/community influence do not significantly influence children's adjustment and achievement. Recommended among supports for families is establishment of a National Institute on the Family, which might compile research, foster advocacy groups, or lobby for family agencies and programs. Described next is a language research/demonstration training program, in which training of 40 retarded children, 16- to 36-months-old, begins with primitive and moves in stages to complex language use, and parents are taught to train their children. In the third paper, the author uses the Pennsylvania and other court cases to describe use of litigation for achieving access to education for all retarded children, for creating new forums, for raising new questions for public discourse, and for redressing grievances. Considered in the last paper are needs of incapacitated older adults, and of older retarded adults who are about to lose a parental figure or parental support. Suggested for serving the older population are a monitoring system to begin with younger handicapped persons and continue with lifelong followup, and a comprehensive protective service program in the community mental health center. (MC)