Abstract:

The purpose of a hostel is to care for disabled elderly people who can no longer live in a reasonable way in the community but who do not need nursing other than that which could be reasonably provided in an ordinary household. This report describes the interdependence between hostels, nursing homes and hospitals by estimating the frequency of transfer, particularly from hostel to nursing home. A study was made of the duration of residence in a hostel of a group of people admitted during a four year period. The importance of assessment and reassessment, and the need for a clearly defined relationship between hostel, acute hospital and nursing home are stressed. Authors estimate that one nursing home place is needed for every three residents in a hostel. Temporary acute hospital admission should also be readily available to avoid unnecessary transfer to a nursing home. Concludes that an organisation such as an Extended Care Department, with responsibilities in all three institutions, is necessary if appropriate care is to be arranged for elderly people in their various stages of disability.