Integration of Research and Practice in Creating a Continuum of Care for the Elderly

Collaborative efforts of research and practice are described which eventuated in the creation of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center's continuum of care for the elderly. Three groups of research studies are cited which aimed to identify and develop needed services and facilities, to assess and evaluate the functional capacities of the elderly, and to plan and evaluate architecture and program for the mentally-impaired. Emphasis is placed on practical application of the findings and the role of practice in identifying researchable issues. Factors which fostered cooperative efforts are discussed.