Functional Ability and Hospital Readmission in Elderly
Results of a trial at a metropolitan hospital in Australia showed that a tailored exercise program and regular telephone follow-up post discharge can improve independence and functional ability in patients age 65+.
The authors point out that during hospitalization older people often experience functional decline which impacts their future independence. Objective of study was to evaluate a multifaceted transitional care intervention including home-based exercise strategies for at risk older people on functional status, independence in activities of daily living, and walking ability.
Participants were recruited from medical wards at a tertiary referral metropolitan hospital in Australia. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they were aged 65 years and over, admitted with a medical diagnosis and had at least one risk factor for readmission.
- 128 patients were recruited within 72 hours of admission
- Control group received the routine care and discharge procedure
- Intervention group also received a 24 week program
The intervention group received an individually tailored program for exercise and follow-up care which was commenced in hospital and included regular visits in hospital by a physiotherapist and a Registered Nurse, a home visit following discharge, and regular telephone follow-up for 24weeks following discharge. The program was designed to improve health promoting behaviours, strength, stability, endurance and mobility.
- Significant improvements were found in the intervention group in IADL scores vs control group
- Greatest improvements were found in the first four weeks following discharge
- Because the intervention combined both exercise and telephone support, the relative contribution of each is unknown
Source:
Courtney M, Edwards H, Nielsen Z, et al. Improved functional ability and independence in activities of daily living for older adults at high risk of hospital readmission: a randomized controlled trial. Journal Of Evaluation In Clinical Practice [serial online]. February 2012;18(1):128-134.
_____________________________________________
There is an alternative that will enhance your current discharge practices. Many healthcare facilities recognize the value of supervised care transitions provided by trained, reputable providers to safeguard against unnecessary readmissions.
Right at Home is at the forefront of these providers. Our RightTransitions program is structured to work with you, other healthcare providers, your patients and their families. We work to reduce your readmission rates, lower costs associated with readmissions and enhance your reputation for providing quality patient care. Whether you currently have a transitional care program or not, our caregivers can improve your patients' recovery, as well as improve your bottom line.
Our non-medical care model includes services necessary to help patients transition safely out of your facility, including:
- Coordinating communication between providers
- Frequent follow-ups with families and discharge planners
- Medication reminders
- Transportation to physician appointments
- Preparing Meals
- Running errands
- Keeping homes clean and safe
For more information on Care Transitions and Right at Home's RightTransitions program select from the following:
Join the RightTransitions Group on LinkedIn for discussions on how to make the client's experience more successful, efficient and enjoyable.
Post a Comment