Traditional notions of rehabilitation must be expanded to incorporate a long-term
care model sensitive to the unique needs of a heterogeneous geriatric population
with multiple chronic impairments. This alternate treatment model posits a
reconceptualization of health management within the context of developing a
specific milieu to optimize resident psychological status. This milieu is conceived of
as serving a geriatric mental health mandate. The relationship between this
therapeutic milieu and resident quality of life is explored. The psychologist plays a
vital role in articulating mental health objectives germane to the milieu's
therapeutic success. The psychologist's specific programmatic interventions at
multiple levels of the milieu and their underlying rationale are discussed.
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