The Quality of Life of Mentally Retarded People in Residential Care

Abstract

Results from a national survey compare the family, leisure, and social activities of two thousand residents of public institutions and community residential facilities for mentally retarded persons. Direct-care staff reported that residents had relatively few individualized social or leisure activities—most residents had no friends and many had no family contacts. The importance of family, leisure, and social activities warrants formal recognition in case management and monitoring efforts.