Classification of adult day care: a cluster analysis of services and activities

Using data from a 1986 national census survey of 774 adult day care (ADC) centers, this study (a) determined whether distinct classes of ADC could be identified based on measures of program services and activities, and (b) delineated the distinguishing characteristics of such classes on other available measures of structure, process, and client population. A cluster analysis of 10 "process" measures of services and activities identified 6 classes of ADC centers: Alzheimer's Family Care, Rehabilitation, High Intensity Clinical/Social, Moderate Intensity Clinical/Social, General Purpose, and Low Scoring. Validity was examined by developing a set of expectations for pairs of classes on other available variables. Of 12 expectations, 11 were supported by the statistical tests. Finally, profiles of the 6 classes were developed to describe the classes on 30 other characteristics. The findings clarify the settings to which previous ADC studies are generalizable and indicate a need for effectiveness studies on special classes of ADC.