Two models of geriatric day care can be empirically discriminated using data from a field study of 10 programs. Programs in both models show some tendency to adapt their features to existing environments. Descriptions of both models are presented. (Author)

Results indicate that costs of the rehabilitation center can be counted in dollars saved by keeping the patient at home instead of in the hospital. Treatment effectiveness, social improvement of patients, and benefits to family and friends cannot be counted in monetary terms. (JAC)