This study consists of a secondary analysis of data collected during the SIPA demonstration project. Its purpose is to identify the proportion of Adult Day Care (ADC) users as well as the determinants of use in this group of persons 65 years old and over receiving home care services in Montreal. Results show that 18.8% of the sample have at least one ADC presence during a 6 months study period. The following factors increase the probability of ADC use: being younger; not having a university degree; being born outside of Canada or for persons born in Canada, living with a caregiver; receiving help from the CLSC for daily life activities more than once a week; being in the catchment population of an ADC which fees are lower; and for men only, having had a stroke or presenting more functional incapacities.

This study was carried out to explore the fit between health and functional characteristics of Day Program participants and the types of program activities they were offered in Day Programs. The subjects were 132 participants from 5 Day Programs in Montreal. Four different participant profile groups were identified using cluster analysis. A classification of program activities was created by a panel of experts. Participation in these activities was studied for each profile group, and compared to recommended activities for such client groups outlined through examination of the literature and consultation with our panel of experts. Results showed only partial correspondence between program activities and participants’ needs. This correspondence seemed higher for individuals with physical health problems or mobility impairments and weaker for those presenting depressive symptoms or cognitive impairments. These results suggest a need to review activity program components and determine ways to match better these with client needs to optimise the benefits of Day Program participation.