Outcomes and costs of community living: Semi-independent living and fully staffed group homes
Please note: this is a legacy publication from CPEC (formely PSSRU at LSE).American Journal of Mental Retardation 113 2 87-101
Abstract
In a matched-groups design, costs and quality of life outcomes for adults with intellectual disabilities with relatively low support needs were compared between those in fully staffed group homes (n = 35) and in semi-independent living (n = 35). Data were collected on participant characteristics, setting organization, various lifestyle outcomes, and costs. There were no differences in the majority of lifestyle outcome measures. Fully staffed participants had better outcomes in money management and some health indicators. Semi-independent living participants had better outcomes for choice and community activities undertaken without staff support. Costs for semi-independent living were less. On balance, semi-independent living could offer certain cost-effective lifestyle advantages provided that sufficient attention is given to health, living, and financial well-being.
In a matched-groups design, costs and quality of life outcomes for adults with intellectual disabilities with relatively low support needs were compared between those in fully staffed group homes (n = 35) and in semi-independent living (n = 35). Data were collected on participant characteristics, setting organization, various lifestyle outcomes, and costs. There were no differences in the majority of lifestyle outcome measures. Fully staffed participants had better outcomes in money management and some health indicators. Semi-independent living participants had better outcomes for choice and community activities undertaken without staff support. Costs for semi-independent living were less. On balance, semi-independent living could offer certain cost-effective lifestyle advantages provided that sufficient attention is given to health, living, and financial well-being.