Abstract:

Reports results of a national survey investigating the numbers, health status, & service needs of people in New Zealand with mental retardation born before 1940. A prevalence of 1.43 per 1,000 was established nationally, with wide regional variation. Of 1,063 cases identified, 75% had at least occasional contact with their families. The service system is changing as a result of shifts in public policy, responsibility, & funding with more care to be provided by families. Major needs identified are therapeutic services, medical care, community & recreational services, & support for families. Research areas recommended as priorities are consensus classification & definition of the population, identification of patterns of ageing among different subgroups, & studies of public policy.