Preventing hospital readmissions and loss of functional ability in high risk older adults: A randomised controlled trial (2008 - 2012)
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Funded by the Australian Research Council, ARC Discovery Grant.
Prof Anne M. Chang Professor, School of Nursing, QUT; Director Queensland Centre for Evidence Based Nursing & Midwifery & Director Nursing Research Centre, Mater Health Services
Prof Helen Edwards Head, School of Nursing, QUT
Prof Anthony Parker Professor, School of Human Movement Studies, QUT
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.
Contact: Professor Anne M. Chang E-mail: am.chang@qut.edu.au