Barker R O, Hanratty B, Kingston A, Ramsay S, Matthews F E. Changes in health and functioning of care home residents over 2 decades: what can we learn from population-based studies? Age Ageing 2020: DOI:10.1093/ageing/afaa227.

...with consequences for all healthcare staff .

Using data from three existing population studies, the authors examine how the proportion of care home residents with complex multi-morbidity and severe disability has changed over time.

The prevalence of severe disability increased significantly between 1992 and 2014, shown by increases in the need for assistance with bathing and dressing. The prevalence of cognitive problems increased from 75% to 95% and the prevalence of cardiovascular disease doubled over the same time period. Future anticipated gains in life expectancy and the increasing proportion of those aged 85+ living in long-term care indicate a predicted need for an additional 71,125 care home places by 2025. The complex care needs of this population require the urgent attention of policy-makers, commissioners and providers to ensure that sufficient resources are available to meet the increasing demands placed on healthcare professionals.