Date of Award

1997

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Human Services

First Advisor

Arlene Taich

Second Advisor

Gary Gardiner

Third Advisor

Marilyn Patterson

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of activities in extended-care facilities. The life expectancy of older adults and housing options is presented in the introduction to this project. A literature review highlights the need for activities to maintain and restore the health of older adults in extended-care facilities. The literature shows that activities help to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of older adults. Meeting these needs leads to life satisfaction for the residents in extended-care facilities. The importance of evaluation in determining the cost-effectiveness of activities in extended-care facilities is also presented in the literature review.

In order to determine the cost-effectiveness of activities in extended-care facilities, the Activity Directors and Administrators of fifty St. Louis area facilities were sent surveys. Only eleven surveys were returned, and this provided a very small sample to study. Even though it was difficult to evaluate the information for cost-effectiveness, activities were shown to be beneficial. Activities helped residents to maintain their mobility. Activities also provided a means for socialization and personal attention. It continues to be important to find ways to determine the cost-effectiveness of activities in extended-care facilities.

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