Can a Unified Service Delivery Philosophy Be Identified in Aging and Disability Organizations? Exploring Competing Service Delivery Models Through the Voices of the Workforce in These Organizations

Abstract

Services for older adults and younger people with disabilities are increasingly merging, as reflected in the creation of Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). Using ADRCs to coordinate services is challenging, primarily because these fields have different service delivery philosophies. Independent Living Centers, which serve people with disabilities, have a philosophy that emphasizes consumer control and peer mentoring. However, the aging service delivery philosophy is based in a case management or medical model in which the role of consumers directing their services is less pronounced. Using institutional logics theory and a qualitative research design, this study explored whether a unified service delivery philosophy for ADRCs was emerging. Based on focus groups and questionnaires with staff from ADRCs, findings revealed that competing service delivery models continue to operate in the aging and disability fields.

Rural Transportation Conference Participants’ Opinions and Concerns Pertaining to Transit for Older Adults

“…This discussion allowed participants to expand upon their survey remarks and provided insights not captured by the survey. This method is similar to that used by Keefe (2018), who combined a small sample questionnaire and focus group. Survey responses were anonymous, and discussion responses were not associated with participants' names or locations, so it is not possible to match survey and discussion results.…”

“…Given differences in population density and other demographics across the United States, policy makers may need to consider new ways to measure efficiency and allocate funding. While inequalities in funding and power among organizations may impede full cooperation, pragmatic collaboration may provide more effective service (Keefe, 2018). Restricting transportation systems by political boundaries limits the efficiency and types of services a provider can offer.…”