Preventing hospital readmissions and loss of functional ability in high risk older adults

Overview

Project status: In progress

Mater - Australian Government

Older people have higher rates of hospital admission than the general population and higher rates of readmission due to complications and falls. During hospitalisation, older people often experience significant functional decline which impairs their future independence and quality of life. Acute hospital services comprise the largest section of health expenditure in Australia and prevention or delay of disease is known to produce more effective use of services. However, current models of discharge planning and follow-up care do not address the need to prevent deconditioning or functional decline.

This study will compare the effectiveness of innovative strategies including exercise and/or in-home and telephone follow-up for community-based older people to prevent deconditioning, functional decline and hospital readmissions. Comparative analysis of these strategies will provide information with potential to reduce costs whilst improving functional status, psychosocial well-being and independence in older people.


Grantor

Australian Research Council - Discovery Grant

Research team
QUT
Organisational unit
Lead unit Faculty of Health Other units
Start date
1st January 2008
End date
31st December 2012
Research area
Chronic Disease, Supportive and Palliative Care