Need for and feasibility of four alternatives to institutionalization of the
elderly (home health care, respite care, day hospitals, and day care) are
examined in a survey of 98 hospital staff in a university-affiliated VA
medical center. The survey revealed 1) the majority were not familiar with
the alternatives; 2) most thought the VA should provide three of the
alternatives; 3) between 20-30% of the elderly patients would be referred; and
4) a number of problems in program implementation were anticipated.
Important considerations in planning and implementing alternative long-term care programs are noted.
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