The sub-acute center: a proposal for relocating elderly mental patients

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Psychiatry
• Community Mental Health
• Healthcare System Innovation

Background:

• Elderly mental hospital patients often face inappropriate confinement in state hospitals.
• Discharge planning for this population lacks adequate preparation for community survival.
• Existing community resources are insufficient for the mental healthcare needs of the aged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel community care setting, the sub-acute center (SAC).
• To address the inadequacies in the current mental healthcare system for the elderly.
• To enhance the transition of elderly patients to independent community living.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of the sub-acute center (SAC) model.
• Integration of foster home and protective setting elements.
• Inclusion of a mental health aftercare component.

Main Results:

• The SAC model combines the concepts of a receiving station, continuity of care, and advocacy.
• It aims to provide a more effective preparation for independent community living.
• Professional SAC staff and aides have diverse potential roles.

Conclusions:

• The proposed sub-acute center (SAC) offers a viable solution to current gaps in elderly mental healthcare.
• This model facilitates better patient preparation and integration into the community.
• SACs can improve the quality of life and independence for elderly mental health patients.