Psychiatric vulnerability among residents in residential care homes

Caregivers indicate that the number of residents with psychiatric vulnerability in WZC is increasing. This includes not only residents with neurocognitive disorders due to dementia, but also residents with depressive mood disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, personality disorders, impulse control and behavioural disorders, addiction disorders, and so on. To date, there is no clear picture on the number of residents with psychiatric vulnerability and specific care needs . Both caregivers and the recommendations of the KCE report on the organisation of mental health care for the elderly in Belgium indicate the need for specific training and specialised support for caregivers in caring for residents with psychiatric vulnerability. This research project focuses on the professionalisation and support of caregivers in WZC in caring for residents with psychiatric vulnerability.