PSYCHOGERIATRIC ASSESSMENT PROGRAM .5. 3-YEAR FOLLOW-UP

In 1974, a 10 mo. diagnostic evaluation of 80 newly admitted psychogeriatric patients was undertaken. Diagnostic categories were functional vs. organic brain disease. Results of a follow-up evaluation 3 yr later were given. To assess prognostic validity of test measures, the initial 1974 data on survivor and nonsurvivor groups were studied and some tests were repeated in 35 of 40 survivors. Statistically significant differences between survivors and nonsurvivors occurred in both organic and functional groups with respect to performance on psychologic and psychophysiologic tests, and the level of social functioning before admission. Death rate was significantly higher in the group with organic disease.