Cluster Homes: A Community for Profoundly and Severely Retarded Persons

Abstract

Abstract This article discusses community residences that in 1983 replaced two large institutional facilities for retarded persons in Florida. Twenty-six of these residences, or clusters, usually housing 24 clients each, are located throughout the state. The clusters are designed to normalize the living conditions of the mentally retarded, increase their safety, and place them close to society and their families. Medical and social services, including occupational therapy, are made available to all residents of the clusters. This article focuses on one of these clusters, with special emphasis on the role and scope of occupational therapy services within this unique setting. Special problems and experiences encountered in the delivery of occupational therapy services to the profoundly and severely retarded clients in the clusters are explored.