Stancliffe, R. & Keane, S.,

2000,

Reviewed by Eric Emerson,
Professor of Clinical Psychology,
Institute for Health Research, Lancaster University

Methodology

Quasi-experimental matched comparison of cost, care practices and outcomes for people with mild/ moderate learning disabilities living either semi-independently or living in group homes in New South Wales , Australia . Information collected by interview for 27 adults per group matched on ability and challenging behaviour.

Critical Appraisal

Unclear selection strategy indicates that the results may not be applicable to 'typical' provision in Australia (or the UK ). Use of quasi-experimental comparison design involves possibility of selection bias which may not have been accounted for by use of matching. No information provided on reliability of information as actually collected within the study (though psychometric properties of measures was specified).

Key Findings

Results indicated that people living in semi-independent settings were more satisfied with their social relationships, had greater choice/control, engaged in more community based activities that afforded opportunities for social inclusion, engaged in more community based activities without staff support and engaged in more domestic activities. There were no benefits associated with living in group homes . The costs of semi-independent living were less than a quarter of those associated with group homes.

Social Work Practice/ Policy Implications

The results of this study suggest that, for at least some people with mild / moderate learning disabilities, superior outcomes may be achieved at lower cost in services that afford people the opportunity to live semi-independently. This study is currently being replicated in the UK .