[Do the activities of day programs for the elderly correspond to their various needs?].
This study was carried out to explore the fit between health and functional characteristics of Day Program participants and the types of program activities they were offered in Day Programs. The subjects were 132 participants from 5 Day Programs in Montreal. Four different participant profile groups were identified using cluster analysis. A classification of program activities was created by a panel of experts. Participation in these activities was studied for each profile group, and compared to recommended activities for such client groups outlined through examination of the literature and consultation with our panel of experts. Results showed only partial correspondence between program activities and participants' needs. This correspondence seemed higher for individuals with physical health problems or mobility impairments and weaker for those presenting depressive symptoms or cognitive impairments. These results suggest a need to review activity program components and determine ways to match better these with client needs to optimise the benefits of Day Program participation.
Savard
Jacinthe
J
Groupe de recherche SOLIDAGE, Université de Montréal. jacinthe.savard@uottawa.ca
Lebel
Paule
P
Leduc
Nicole
N
Béland
François
F
Bergman
Howard
H
D000368:Aged; D002170:Canada; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003631:Day Care, Medical / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male