The article describes the shift in age and behaviour of the clients in an institute for homeless people during a period of twenty-five years from a prevalence of middle-aged and elderly men with alcohol problems (only 2% younger people). The clientele has changed such that the percentage is now 14% for the latter group, i.e. below 30 years of age. Furthermore, an increase in the number of women is noticeable. This younger group of clients is to a great extent characterized by alcohol-abuse, but one third of the group suffers from «mixed» abuse or actual drug abuse (that is: one out of nine of the whole group). Finally, more and more clients (one out of five) are observed with actual mental disease (chronic or periodical psychosis). A similar development is seen in several other countries and it can be expected to continue. Hence intensified aidmeasures for this group must be taken into consideration. The rejection procedures towards these socially maladapted persons are pointed out and their own negative attitude towards the established treatmentfacilities is discussed. Cooperation between the social institutions and the hospital service must be extended and more flexible and acceptable treatment established.