Status of care centers for mentally disabled persons and their needs satisfaction by caregivers

Abstract

Background: In recent years the number of persons with mental disabilities has increased. Some of them are cared for in care centers and use the supportive services of welfare organization. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the status of care centers for mentally disabled persons and their needs satisfaction by their caregivers . Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 35 caregivers who were selected by nonrandom sampling method from 2 public and 1 charity care centers in Tehran, in 2003 . Data were collected using a questionnaire and an observational standard checklist. Findings: In providing need for progress and success, identity, life philosophy and independency, 77%, 74.2%, 68.5% and 54.2% of caregivers were weak, respectively. They had good function in providing other needs like food and sleep . The care centers were not consistent with the standards in terms of facilities, staff and equipment. Conclusion: With regard to the results, more attention should be considered for mentally disabled persons’ needs of progress, identity and life philosophy.