Consultation—liaison in an old age psychiatry service

Abstract

This retrospective study looks at the outcome of 71 consecutive liaison referrals. Placement was noted at three-month follow-up and further use of medical, psychiatric and social services, compliance with clinical management and recommendations was also measured. Nearly half the patients had dementia and about half had a functional disorder. In 90% of referrals the recommendations were followed. At three-month follow-up 17% had died, 26% had further medical hospital admission, 39% had moved into a continuing care facility (residential/nursing home), and over half had further contact with the old age psychiatry services.