An Exchange of Services programfor Adults with Developmental Disabilities

A randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate a community program to train, match and place developmentally disabled adults with elderly people who needed help with housekeeping, personal care and companionship. Program goals were not acheived, as employment of persons with developmental disabilities did not increase and institutionalization of elderly people was not delayed. The program did improve feelings of well-being. Program cost exceeded $200 per person-month. Attrition was high, and survival analysis indentified critical periods for retention in the program.