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Families Like the Services at Tacachale

GAINESVILLE, FL - The Agency for Persons with Disabilities announced today the results of a survey showing family members and guardians are very happy with the services provided at the Tacachale Center in Gainesville. Tacachale is a residential campus for people with developmental disabilities.

Surveys with 13 questions were sent to 700 family members or guardians with 150 completing the survey. About half of the people who returned the survey added comments about the high quality of care their family member or friend receives at Tacachale.

The results showed 97 percent of people agreed or strongly agreed with the statement, "Overall, I am satisfied with the quality of life he/she has at Tacachale." Further, 95 percent agreed or strongly agreed with the statement, "The staff members in the homes are caring and careful with residents." One person wrote next to this question that, "Tacachale is an amazing place."

Some comments from the returned surveys show that family members and guardians are overwhelmingly appreciative of the high level of care and the quality of life that is possible for residents:

• "Mostly, I appreciate that my brother is safe and well cared for in a protected environment where people seem to care. Also I like that there is good communication between staff and family. Thank you all for caring."
• "I wouldn't have my sister anywhere else. I trust Tacachale with all my heart for her care,"
• "Each staff member takes pride in things that are above and beyond their duty. Sunland, now Tacachale has really changed over the years. Just keep up the good work."
• "C. loves living at Tacachale. She is happy and I know she feels safe and secure. It is the total environment that is the key to Tacachale's success for her. She has a home, work, transportation, church, medical, social and professional services to meet her needs. K. and the rest of the staff are wonderful."

Family members were encouraged to ask questions on the returned survey. Tacachale social workers will be following up to be sure all issues are resolved. Also, the survey results will be reviewed to identify opportunities for improvement in the quality of life of residents.

Tacachale has served people with developmental disabilities since 1921. Currently 413 residents live on campus with an additional 55 people housed in the secure court-ordered forensic program. About 250 residents earn paychecks for work done in specialized settings.

The Agency for Persons with Disabilities currently serves more than 35,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities of mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information on the agency, call 1-866-APD-CARES or visit www.apd.myflorida.com.