Showing papers by "Tamar Heller published in 1998"

Impact of age and transitions out of nursing homes for adults with developmental disabilities.

Abstract: The impact of moving out of nursing homes into community-based settings was assessed by comparing the health, community functioning, and lifestyle satisfaction of movers and nonmovers at Time 1 and 3 years later at Time 2. We also examined whether age was a significant factor in outcomes of the transfers. The sample included 165 nonmovers and 67 movers age 30 years and older who initially were living in nursing homes. Findings indicated that movers showed benefits of improved health and community functioning. In addition, interviews with residents indicated higher increases in lifestyle satisfaction for the movers versus the nonmovers. Age of the residents did not have a significant impact on the effects of transferring out of nursing homes.

Professional-led versus family-led support groups: exploring the differences.

Abstract: Support groups often help families cope more effectively with relatives' mental illnesses. This study examines the differences between support groups led by professionals and those led by family members, focusing specifically on group participation benefits and group content. Results indicate that participants of both professional and family-led groups reported that the groups provided them with needed information about mental illness and its treatment and that the groups improved their relationships with their ill relatives. Professional-led groups placed a greater emphasis on the relatives' problems and coping with emotions, and family-led groups placed a greater emphasis on advocacy. Suggestions are provided regarding increased collaboration between professional and family-led support groups.

Support group satisfaction: a comparison of minority and white families.

Abstract: This chapter examines the support group experiences of minority families of persons with mental illness.