Abstract:
Object: to measure the extent of disability in residents of Auckland rest homes and to document any differences between religious and welfare homes and commercial homes. Methods: analysis of a 36 item questionnaire on 2087 residents in 32 religious and welfare homes and 3126 residents in 191 commercial homes (98.7% response rate). Results: residents in commercial homes were significantly more disabled than those in religious and welfare homes: 24% compared with 12% were incontinent, 62% and 31% confused, and 78% and 49% respectively needed assistance with mobility and selfcare. Of special concernwere 7% and 3% who were doubly incontinent, 7% and 2% confused to the point of disturbing other residents, and 4% and 2% who met the criteria for hospital care. Conclusions: a significant number of residents were disabled and required help in important aspects of simple self care. Informed advice, variety, and choice in type of care are mandatory before entering a rest home. Homes must employ trained staff who can identify and minimise problems so as to ensure optimal quality of life for residents.