The Nature and Severity of Disabilities in Long-Stay Psychiatric In-patients in South Glamorgan

Long-stay psychiatric in-patients in South Glamorgan were reviewed using the MRC Needs for Care assessment. The majority were middle aged or elderly and were severely disabled, with problems encompassing symptoms/behavioural difficulties, social skills, and physical health. In most, long-standing psychiatric illness was compounded by physical illness and cognitive deficits as age advanced, producing care needs that were greater than existing community services could meet.