FOLLOW-UP STUDY ON A GROUP OF OLDER AMPUTEE PATIENTS

Abstract

Detailed interviews were held with 51 amputees followed for varying periods after fitting of prostheses and release from hospital. Psychological factors affecting attitude and motivation seemed to be operating to various degrees. Favorable morale regarding value and use of the prosthesis by individuals appeared to be related to degree of change in physical condition, mode of living, and restriction on activities. It is believed worth-while to provide prostheses with assistive devices for older amputees in order to help them remain more functional in their self-care, ambulation, and posthospital adjustment.