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Identifying needs and services for the aged
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|June 1, 1977
Summary
The Assessment and Placement Service (APS) helped health professionals identify needs for individuals with chronic disabling diseases. Most referrals were seniors, with many requiring placement in institutions or private residences.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Care
- Public Health Services
- Healthcare System Analysis
Background:
- The Assessment and Placement Service (APS) in Hamilton-Wentworth aimed to support individuals with chronic disabling diseases.
- The majority of individuals referred to APS were elderly, highlighting a significant need within this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the characteristics of individuals referred to the Assessment and Placement Service (APS).
- To evaluate the placement outcomes and identify healthcare system deficiencies for persons with chronic disabling diseases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of referral data from September 1971 to December 1975.
- Categorization of referrals by age, origin, placement type, and demographic factors.
- Physician assessment of cognitive functions (memory, judgment) and follow-up evaluations.
Main Results:
- Over 80% of 9,300 referrals were individuals aged 64 and older.
- In 1975, 2,005 individuals were placed, with origins including acute care hospitals and the community.
- Cognitive impairments were prevalent, with only 20% having normal memory and 13% normal judgment; many elderly individuals were widowed or living alone.
Conclusions:
- The APS played a crucial role in managing complex healthcare needs of an aging population with chronic conditions.
- Placement decisions were based on identified needs, utilizing both institutional and community-based resources.
- The study identified critical deficiencies in the healthcare system, necessitating reporting to the Health Council for improvement.