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Intra-institutional relocation: measured impact upon geriatric patients
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|February 1, 1981
Summary
Relocating elderly psychiatric patients to different care facilities did not negatively impact their behavior or increase mortality. This study suggests mass relocation for better treatment doesn't always harm patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatric Care
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Intra-hospital relocation of elderly patients is common.
- Concerns exist regarding the potential negative impacts of such moves on patient well-being and mortality.
- Previous literature often reports detrimental effects of relocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of intra-hospital relocation on elderly psychiatric patients.
- To evaluate changes in behavior and mortality rates following transfer to intermediate, skilled nursing, or psychiatric care facilities.
Main Methods:
- A before-and-after analysis was conducted on 389 elderly psychiatric hospital residents (mean age 76.2 years, mean hospitalization 22.4 years).
- Behavior rating scores were analyzed pre- and post-relocation.
- Mortality rates were compared to baseline values.
Main Results:
- No significant deterioration in measured behaviors was observed after relocation.
- The relocation did not cause a substantial increase in mortality rates.
- Findings contradict previous reports suggesting negative outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Mass relocation of elderly psychiatric patients for improved care does not inherently lead to detrimental effects.
- Patient outcomes appear independent of relocation stress in this context.
- Further research is needed to explore the interplay between individual characteristics and environmental factors in relocation outcomes.