Mental disorders of the aged: the role of the state hospital in the treatment; report of a pilot study.

The number of patients age 65 and over at the Agnews State Hospital now constitutes over one-third of the resident population. The geriatric population is increasing in all California state hospitals. Because this is a relatively new area of concern for the psychiatric institution, the role of the state hospital in the care of the aged is not yet clearly defined.A pilot study of admissions in this age group committed from one county during a 12-month period was undertaken, with an attempt made to evaluate the suitability of the patient for commitment, as well as special problems in admission, treatment during hospitalization, and release from the hospital. The study indicated 42 per cent of persons admitted were considered unsuitable for commitment. Physical illness was found to be a major factor in precipitating admission and a predominating factor in the treatment program after admission. Almost 40 per cent of the patients died within a year after admission.