As of this writing the staff from the home where specific design recommendations were made to add an acoustic ceiling in the dining area report a noticeable difference in the acoustic conditions. It remains to be seen whether this change in acoustics has any effect on the number and nature of behavioral incidents. There is however, no acoustic cure all. Poor acoustic conditions must be evaluated and addressed on an individual basis to determine the best approach. Policy and management changes can also be made.
Daily routine can change to split up larger groups.
Location of activities that cause noise can also be evaluated and changed based on the existing acoustic conditions. Quiet areas can be designed for residents who are dis turbed by louder noise, and wish to have some relief from it. Additional research needs to be completed on this. Studies that examine the relationship between the presence of particular frequencies or noise levels and behavioral incidents would establish a better understanding of the effects of poor acoustics in group homes. These studies need to be carefully designed in order to control for other factors that affect resident behavioral outbursts.