Trends in Mental Health Admissions to Nursing Homes, 1999–2005

Abstract

Current trends show that the proportion of nursing home admissions with mental illness, in particular depression, has overtaken the proportion with dementia. These changes may be related to increased recognition of depression, availability of alternatives to nursing homes for persons with dementia, and increased specialization among nursing homes in the care of postacute, rehabilitation residents. In light of these trends, it is critical to ensure that nursing homes have resources to adequately treat residents with mental illness to facilitate community reintegration.