This section is taken from information provided in the 'Good clinical practice guidelines', prepared by a working group led by Professor Alan Sinclair

Older people with mental health needs living in care homes are entitled to receive the same range of health and social care services that other older people receive. More than 40 per cent of residents in standard care homes have mental health needs.

As more than 25 per cent of residents have diabetes, many are also likely to have a mental health problem, and it will be necessary for the care home manager to ensure that mental health and social care services liaise closely with the local community diabetes teams.

This process can be linked to the resident’s care plan.

The range of illnesses vary, from changes in mood status and depressive illness, to cognitive impairment states and advanced dementia. The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) of 2005 provides a legal framework to protect residents who are unable to make their own decisions.

Often it is a family member who has what is often known as ‘power of attorney’. In some cases deputies can be appointed by the Court of Protection to assist residents to make appropriate decisions in the resident’s best interest.

All community nursing staff will have received mandatory training in the MCA and all care home managers will be familiar with the principles of the Act and how they apply to their residents.

Reviewed March 2010
Next review September 2011