The geriatric scene in Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg has 14 old-age homes which accommodate 656 residents, a general provincial hospital which caters largely for elderly patients, and various charitable organisations which are concerned with the needs of elderly people. However, the staff of the general hospital is constantly faced with the problem of patients who cannot be discharged from hospital because of the unsuitability of the conditions in their homes. This problem has prompted a study of existing facilities for the aged in Pietermaritzburg. It is concluded that more facilities are needed for the care of frail elderly people.