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us from this and discharge of the patient back to the community
should always be considered the normal outcome of hospitalisation.
In order to achieve this there must be, at the very beginning,
more of a personal and less of the stereotyped approach. This is
of prime importance, for the disturbed conduct of the elderly
so often stems from our own attitudes towards them. Who cannot
call to mind instances of mental confusion resulting from family
argument, close questioning or even intensive medical investigation?
In nursing the elderly, disillusionment is almost certain
with the "gimic" approach for real achievement is not to be found
in the passivisms special cots or ripple or incontinent beds nor in
a superfluity of mechanical aids. Successful treatment is much
more likely to be found in increased activity and improved
amenities. Experience has shown that the more we expect from
our older citizens the more we shall get and if we begin with the
maxim that rehabilitation starts with the restitution of independence
then the outlook will be so much more favourable. Therefore
let us render to the aged the respect they deserve and treat
them as the responsible individuals they are and would wish to
remain. If we are called upon to minister to them let us at least
have the courtesy to remember their names and a little of the
previous histories leading to their present conditions. If certain
actions must be taken or particular treatments instituted then let
us credit them with intelligence and explain the reasons and so
ensure their active co-operation. They have a right to indulge
their own religious and political persuasions and indeed, whenever
possible, they should be given opportunities for self-expression for
this may well be the means of preventing mental deterioration.
Finally, let us try to preserve their dignity. They have the
elementary right of privacy when it is required for the reception
of their visitors or for the more mundane purpose of using a
bed pan.
What of the future? Each age group, as it nears retirement,
will have to determine its own attitude towards old age. Will it
be regarded as a holiday lasting fifteen to twenty years or will it
be considered, as Carl Jung suggested, a period for education or
artistic pursuits? Is there some purpose which seems to elude
the majority of people in such conditions or should it be assumed
that old people, having earned their rest, would retire from
society? Whatever the problems confronting these people I feel
that we are in a unique position to counsel and guide them
through their difficulties if given the opportunity.
Whether coming events do cast their shadows before may be
questionable but it i,s clear that the next decade or so will see an