Abstract
It is recognized in the field of social work that institutionalization of any people produces certain negative and detrimental patterns of behaviour. In geriatrics present practice is away from institutionalization. The aged are encouraged to find employment or interests and to move out of institutions. Emphasis is placed upon individual flats and self-care with any supportive services that are necessary. More and more the emphasis in child care is upon foster care in ordinary homes scattered through the general community and culture to which the children belong.