COMMUNITY CARE FOR THE LONG-TERM MENTALLY-ILL - A REVIEW OF THE HOUSING ISSUE

Appropriate housing facilities are an integrated part of the community care for long-term mentally ill, serving as the patients' base during the entire treatment and rehabilitation process. Two different approa ches to the housing issue are discussed: the linear continuum and the supported housing model. Process and outcome measures of previous rese arch are reviewed, and it is concluded that smaller facilities with em phasis on patient involvement, practical and emotional support, and so me degree of structure is superior in aiding adaptation. Future perspe ctives are outlined. It is concluded that the community care system sh ould provide supported housing as part of a broad range of housing alt ernatives, emphasizing more permanent living arrangements. Proper comm unity support and housing facilities are a supplement and not an alter native to the hospital treatment.