The elderly in long-term care: 2 — an estimate of misplacement using objective criteria

Eight hundred and seventy-one permanent residents in residential homes (Part III), EMI homes, geriatric hospitals and psychogeriatric wards were examined over a two-week period and their cognitive and behavioural functions recorded using a reliable and valid questionnaire (CAPE Survey). Objective criteria for placement in each of these four types of unit were selected in advance of the study, using easily available Government and professional guidelines. The residents' data were then analysed to see if they were appropriately placed. A considerable degree of misplacement was found to occur in all types of unit and reasons for this are discussed.