IMPACT OF PERSON-CENTERED LATER LIFE PLANNING TRAINING-PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH MENTAL-RETARDATION

This study examines the effectiveness of a person-centered later life planning training program for older adults with mental retardation, th eir family, and staff. The sample gathered in two states included 70 a dults (42 intervention and 38 comparison subjects). Included in the sa mple were adults with mental retardation age 35 and over with Down syn drome and adults with mental retardation, but not Down syndrome, age 5 0 and over. Assessments included interviews conducted prior to the tra ining (pre-tests) and 6 months after the pre-tests and observations of individual service planning meetings. Results indicated improved know ledge of skills and concepts in the curriculum and increased leisure p articipation for those living at home. For participants (versus the co mparison group) the service planning meetings included greater involve ment of families, more encouragement of the individual's participation , and more incorporation of the individual's desires in the written go als.