[Younger psychiatric patients in homes for the aged and nursing homes]

All 77 residents aged under 65 in geriatric nursing homes and homes for the elderly in the Berlin (W) district of Charlottenburg were assessed in regard to mental illness and impairment. Additionally, data were collected covering psychopathology, clinical and personal data, medical and social care as well as the extent of contacts to nonresidents and institutional setting. 85% of these younger residents-8% of the total residential population-proved to be mentally ill. Primarily, they suffered from addiction, schizophrenia or mental retardation. Projecting our results to the total residential population of Berlin living in such homes, 728 younger mentally ill or retarded patients or 0,5%o of the population aged under 65 would live in such institutions. These residents had histories of unfavorable living conditions and a long psychiatric case history with frequent hospitalization. Distinct differences in regard to patient data as well as settings were found among public, welfare and private institutions. Results are discussed and arguments for improving care of this population are presented.