Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to H Hofmeyr.
While attempting to find out why so many of our elderly patients could not be discharged from hospital, we again observed the value of a knowledge of the patient's social background. Not only was it of great help in making a diagnosis and planning therapy, but it also stimulated our interest in the patient as a person, and was thus of mutual benefit to doctor and patient.
Pietermaritzburg has 14 old-age homes which accommodate 656 residents, a general provincial hospital which caters largely for elderly patients, and various charitable organisations which are concerned with the needs of elderly people. However, the staff of the general hospital is constantly faced with the problem of patients who cannot be discharged from hospital because of the unsuitability of the conditions in their homes. This problem has prompted a study of existing facilities for the aged in Pietermaritzburg. It is concluded that more facilities are needed for the care of frail elderly people.
A significant number of White patients over the age of 65 years, admitted to the medical wards of Grey's Hospital, cannot be discharged after treatment. This is a serious problem because they occupy beds needed for patients who are acutely ill. The objective of this study was to determine the reasons for this state of affairs.