Moving from Long-Stay Hospitals

Abstract

A cohort of 68 persons had been resettled from a long-stay hospital over a 5 year period, with over 90 percent moving to residential and nursing homes. Interviews were conducted with 39 residents and 34 relatives. Residents had more likes and fewer dislikes about their present accommodation than about the hospital. Nearly all were happy to have moved. A minority of families had been unhappy before the move. After the move, all families felt the residence was at least equivalent to the hospital, with most rating it as much better. Families liked the staff, the atmosphere, the buildings, and the individual rooms. They disliked the congregated living models, the failure of people to move on, and the dearth of social networks. Recommendations include increased awareness of new housing and support options, regular reviews of clients' needs and aspirations, and opportunities for access to independent advocacy services.