Elderly handicapped persons in a primary care district: changes during a 5-8 year follow-up

643 handicapped persons born in 1918 or earlier were found at an inventory in 1975-78. In a follow-up 5-8 years later the mortality was 46%, which was significantly higher compared to the general mortality in the same age groups. There was no relationship between social class and mortality. Based on data from the first study, the deceased showed, compared to the surviving, impaired ADL and they used more medical and social care. The surviving population showed impairments in primary and secondary ADL during the follow-up. Elderly handicapped persons constitute a group at risk as they have an increased mortality and a great need of medical and social care. They should therefore be known to the medical profession.