[An evolutionary study of patients under geriatric home care at 18 months]

In this study we analyze the evolution of 85 patients included in a geriatric home care (GHC) program after 18 months. Mean age was 82 years, with a mean 4 diagnosis per patient and treatment with a mean of 3 drugs per patient. Of these patients 53% presented physical and 36% mental severe deterioration. After 18 months, 39% of the patients had died and 25% continued in the program. Readmissions at the geriatric ward was only 16% in the 18 months of follow-up. The most deteriorated patients required a greater nursery attention and less pharmacological treatment. Male patients presented more pluripathology, required more nurse techniques and died more frequently than females, who were more frequently discharged. These data contribute to the better knowledge of GHC, a care level which should be considered when planning health assistance of the elderly.