A survey of psychiatric liaison services for older adults in the eastern region of the United Kingdom

Aims and Methods: The aim of this study was to investigate the provision of liaison services for older adults in the Eastern Region of the UK. We surveyed all the acute general hospitals for current service and problems encountered in delivering and developing these services. Results: The survey had a 100% response. Sixty-two percent did not have a dedicated liaison service. The predominant model of service delivery was nurse led. The majority of the services had evolved over the last 2 years and had time limited funding only. In two hospitals the service had ceased due to lack of continuing funding. Clinical Implications: The survey has highlighted liaison services for older people and show that they remain a neglected area. This survey provides information that will be useful to commissioners and providers who are developing liaison psychiatry services for older people. (c) 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.