Quality of life: A matched group comparison of long stay individuals and day patients manifesting psychiatric disabilities

Abstract

Matched groups of psychiatric inpatients and day patients were compared on quality of life (QOL) indices. Significant unmet needs for assessment were apparent, particularly in relation to social information for day patients. Comparisons on QOL indices indicated that differences were consistently in favour of the day patients. Day patients were more likely to have access to modern amenities such as kettles and cookers, but not TV or laundry facilities. They had more control over aspects of their lives (such as getting up and meals), more personal belongings and privacy. Reviews of social activity over the previous week indicated that, with one exception, there were no differences. Community existence for these individuals seems to involve better QOL in many but not all respects, but little improvement in social activity.