Abstract
This study examined the relationships between the levels of independence in excretion and physical/cognitive functions in residents of special nursing homes for the elderly providing functional recovery care. On analyzing the data of 1,230 residents, offered by 17 special nursing homes for the elderly participating in a caregiving skill-building workshop, to clarify such relationships, significant differences were observed in most items related to excretory behavior, eating behavior, mobility, and cognitive functions. Among these factors, the food type showed a particularly strong correlation with the level of independence in excretion. The results suggest that independent excretion is achievable even in those requiring partial assistance for activities of daily living, and that sufficient regular food and energy intakes make discharge to home and the continuation of home life feasible.
