To determine family involvement after geriatric assessment, two groups of patients were followed: a sample of 1981 patients and their caregivers were interviewed in 1981 and 1984: and, a sample of 1983 patients and their caregivers were interviewed in 1984. The findings indicate that nuclear family members retain on-going relationships with their elderly. Kin networks shrink for those elderly without nuclear kin when their mental functioning decreases. Needs and resources change over time.