In 1990, the likelihood of restraint use was increased by factors such as three or more ADLs, the use of antipsychotic medications, and a history of falls. In 1993, increasing ADL scores, being older, a history of falls, the use of antipsychotic medication, and mobility problems were risk factors for restraint use. Facilities with an Alzheimer's special care unit were less likely to use restraints. Reimbursement methods also contributed to restraint use. Detection and Correction of Underweight Problems in Nursing Home Residents .
Weight loss is often common in the elderly.
Factors contributing to weight loss include gastrointestinal disorders, nutritional disorders, medication use, and behavioral and psychiatric problems. Elderly nursing facility residents who weight more than 20 percent below their ideal weight suffer more from depression, anemia, have more hip fractures, and have more decubitus ulcers than residents of normal weight. The goal of this study was to identify those residents who were underweight and to develop and implement programs to bring their weights closer to normal limits. Twenty-three percent of the 205 residents were found to be underweight. Individual care plans were developed for these 48 residents.