This work offers knowledge and practical help to nurses caring for the elder patient in hospital or community settings. The older patient encounters numerous changes in later life which are not necessarily determined by a fixed chronological age. These particular physical, psychological, social and spiritual changes which occur in advancing years mark out the older person as having special needs. Nurses need to develop specialist skills in this field in order to give effective help. While not turning away from the need for high-tech' skills when relevant, this book emphasizes the need for nurses to value their high-touch' role, whether in acute settings, the continuing care ward or the patients own home. Each chapter draws upon current literature and research and the recurring theme throughout this book is the emphasis on three key special and valuable elements - the older patient, the care and the nurse. This book should be of interest to student nurses on ward placement, Project 2000 students following Adult Nursing branch, nurses specializing in geriatric nursing, community based nurses.