ABSTRACT
The typology of old age homes allows events to be examined in relation to specified variables. Such a framework is valuable but must not lead to oversimplification. ‘All societies have arrangements for encouraging, and sometimes insisting on the development of skills; social, physical and intellectual.’ Such a global statement could not be made about nurturing the elderly. The functions of the old age home are significant, for greater clarity is needed about the tasks it carries out. In addition it is apparent that it is easier to assess whether some functions are satisfactorily fulfilled than others. There is a variety of ways of assessing whether schools have transmitted instrumental skills successfully, of which the most obvious is to assess examination results. This style reflects separate living-space for the old, but within that space a contented and happy existence. Restrictions and changes in life-style have been accepted and the resident has found a satisfactory modus vivendi.
