Minimum need for care in geriatric institutions

On the basis of a study from De Gamles By, Copenhagen, concerning the mortality and changes in the patients' need for nursing care over a 2-year period, calculation is made of the time-related changes in the care status, using a special model for homes for elderly persons. This model is based on a policy that only independent persons are received into such homes and that they remain there until they die. It is found that the need for care becomes stabilized after a period of 5-6 years and remains at a level corresponding to about 45% independent, 36% slightly dependent, and 17% heavily dependent patients (the "minimum need for care"). Using the model, a few examples are given to illustrate the changes which would arise in the need for care in De Gamles By if, on the basis of the primary care status on January 15, 1969, (A) only independent patients were admitted, and (B) the current admittance policy was continued.