The ‘MORES’ (MOdena RESidenze) project was a naturalistic study designed to assess clinical outcomes and to investigate psychosocial needs in two groups of patients currently admitted in two residential facilities characterized by different intensity of care (“low protection” vs. “high protection”).

32 patients (62%) in a Sheltered Housing (SH, low protection) and 20 patients (38%) in a Psychiatric Residence (PR, high protection) were assessed by means of a multi-dimensional and multiaxial system. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected from patient charts. Clinicianadministered instruments (BPRS, GAF, CAN) and self-rating scales (LQL, VSSS, Empowerment Scale) were administered to all 52 patients. Chi-squared test and Mann-Whitney U-test were used to compare the two groups.

The most frequent diagnosis was Schizophrenia (n=41; 79%). No differences were found in socio-demographic and clinical characteristics between the two groups, as well as in psychometric scores. Scores at the BPRS, GAF, CAN and Empowerment scales revealed in both groups a medium-low degree of psychiatric symptomatology, low global functioning, high level of care needs (many of them satisfied, 73%) and a low level of empowerment, respectively. Self-perceived quality of life was poor (LQL: SH=4,57±0,31; PR=4,4±0,33), specifically related to the housing situation and VSSS (SH=3,81±0,85; PR=3,52±0,82) suggested poor satisfaction with mental health services.

Though no difference were found between the two groups, patients’ needs emerged clearly, suggesting need for further investigation to tailor more specific rehabilitation programs.