Dimensions of group home culture as predictors of quality of life outcomes.

Abstract

BackgroundResearch has shown that there is variability in quality of life (QOL) outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities who live in group homes. The aim was to examine dimensions of group home culture as predictors of QOL outcomes.MethodThe Group Home Culture Scale (GHCS) was used to measure staff perceptions of culture in 23 group homes. QOL data were available from 98 people with intellectual disabilities. Multilevel modelling was used to examine the associations between the GHCS subscales and four QOL‐dependent variables.ResultsOf the GHCS subscales, Effective Team Leadership and Alignment of Staff with Organizational Values significantly predicted residents’ engagement in activities. Supporting Well‐Being significantly predicted residents’ community involvement. None of the GHCS subscales significantly predicted domestic participation and choice making.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that strategies to improve Effective Team Leadership and Supporting Well‐Being dimensions of culture may contribute to enhancing certain QOL outcomes.