The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has updated its Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including with new information specifically addressed to individuals in the European Economic Area. As described in the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, this website utilizes cookies, including for the purpose of offering an optimal online experience and services tailored to your preferences.

Please read the entire Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By closing this message, browsing this website, continuing the navigation, or otherwise continuing to use the APA's websites, you confirm that you understand and accept the terms of the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including the utilization of cookies.

×
Published Online:https://doi.org/10.1176/ps.33.5.374

A behaviorally oriented treatment program was developed for geriatric patients at a state psychiatric hospital, in an attempt to demonstrate that active treatment for the elderly can be both socially beneficial and economically wise. Outcome data indicated that the program was successful in decreasing the average length of hospital stay, decreasing the percentage of patients discharged to more dependent living settings than those from which they were admitted, and increasing placements to independent living settings. An economic analysis demonstrated benefit-to-cost ratios of between ten and 20 to one, depending on assumptions used. The authors believe the ratios were especially encouraging as they were calculated using conservative assumptions.

Access content

To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.