Survival of the Unfittest

Originally published in 1972, this book is an analytical account of the socio-medical tribulations suffered by Glasgow's east-end elderly leading to referral to geriatric wards. It examines why so many old people suffer from physical, mental and social deprivation in the final years of their lives.

Bernard Isaacs was Consultant Physician in the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Glasgow Royal Infirmary. Maureen Livingstone was the Social Worker at Lightburn Hospital, Glasgow. Yvonne Neville was Senior Research Assistant at the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Glasgow Royal Infirmary.

Part 1: The Fall of Mrs McGoldrick 2. The East End of Glasgow 3. The Evolution of the Geriatric Service 4. The Hard Core 5. The Co-ordinates of Care 6. Insufficient Basic Care 7. The Anatomy of Neglect: Preoccupation 8. The Anatomy of Neglect: Dilemma, Refusal 9. The Anatomy of Neglect: Rejection 10. The Bonds of Strain 11. The Sources of Strain 12. The Victims of Strain 13. The Triangles of Dependency 14. Incontinence 15. Community Care 16. 'Something Must Be Done' Part 2: Materials and Methods; Definitions. Appendices. Tables. Bibliography.