Functional disability in residents of Auckland rest homes.

OBJECT

to measure the extent of disability in residents of Auckland rest homes and to document any differences between religious and welfare homes and commercial homes.

METHODS

analysis of a 36 item questionnaire on 2087 residents in 32 religious and welfare homes and 3126 residents in 191 commercial homes (98.7% response rate).

RESULTS

residents in commercial homes were significantly more disabled than those in religious and welfare homes: 24% compared with 12% were incontinent, 62% and 31% confused, and 78% and 49% respectively needed assistance with mobility and selfcare. Of special concern were 7% and 3% who were doubly incontinent, 7% and 2% confused to the point of disturbing other residents, and 4% and 2% who met the criteria for hospital care.

CONCLUSIONS

a significant number of residents were disabled and required help in important aspects of simple self care. Informed advice, variety, and choice in type of care are mandatory before entering a rest home. Homes must employ trained staff who can identify and minimise problems so as to ensure optimal quality of life for residents.