An experimental-control model was utilized with a sample of 529 patients undergoing relocation and 453 not experiencing relocation to examine the effects of relocation on the health and functioning of geriatric patients, and impact of functioning on mortality. The findings indicated that relocation had a positive effect on hypochondria, stamina, hygiene and daily functioning and had no effect on health status. Self health assessments, stamina, hypochondria and hygiene did not have any effect on the mortality rate of relocated patients; however, daily functioning did have an effect on mortality.