Mental and physical capacity and consumption of neuroleptic drugs in residents of homes for aged people.

The mental and physical capacity of all residents in homes for aged people were estimated, and their neuroleptic drug consumption and duration of stay were registered. One third was moderately to severely mentally impaired and 38% demanded more extensive nursing care. Physical dependence was significantly associated with mental decline, and less with age. One quarter of severely mentally impaired people had stayed for less than one year; 23% of the residents received neuroleptic drugs. Treatment was more common in physically incapacitated people together with wandering and aggressive ones. Lack of psychogeriatric services may enhance the use of neuroleptic drugs in homes for aged people.