Older people with long-term mental illness. A survey in a community rehabilitation service using the Camberwell Assessment of Needs for the Elderly (CANE)

摘要

Aims: Following the Royal College of Psychiatrists' recommendations, assessments were carried out by the community rehabilitation team in Newham, East London, using the Camberwell Assessment of Needs for the Elderly (CANE) to assess the needs and quality of service provided to all patients over the age of 65 years. Results: 49 patients were screened using the CANE. The majority of needs appeared to be met by the current service provision. However, certain needs remained unmet: daytime activity (in 36.7% of patients), lack of company (in 22.4% of patients), help with eyesight and hearing difficulties (in 20.4% of patients) and help with money and budgeting (in 18.4 % of patients) were the most prominent. Implications: Whereas most psychiatric and practical needs were well met, service planning needs to focus on outreach day activity and befriending services. Mental health services need to closely monitor physical problems which are more specific to older people e.g. eyesight and hearing, and include these in their care plans.