Citation

Renehan E, Meyer C, Elliott RA, Batchelor F, Said C, Haines T, Goeman D. J. Aging Phys. Act. 2019; 27(2): 155-165.

Affiliation

l Central Clinical School, Department of Nursing, Health Sciences and Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Human Kinetics Publishers)

DOI

10.1123/japa.2017-0406

PMID

29989468

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Post-hospital discharge shows increased risk for falls in older people. This pilot study was created to determine feasibility and acceptability of a community-delivered post-hospital multi-factorial program.

METHOD: This mixed-method study used randomised controlled design (quantitative component) and interviews (qualitative component). People aged ≥65 years, hospitalised for a fall, underwent assessment for quality of life and falls-related outcomes, followed by interviews, randomisation into intervention (exercise, medication review and education) or control group, and follow-up at 6-months.

RESULTS: Thirteen people commenced, with ten people assessed at 6-months. Participants were complex with high degrees of frailty, multi-morbidity, polypharmacy and falls risk. Interview data related to intervention, impacts on quality of life and fall-related outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Preliminary findings suggest suitability of a multi-factorial program for older people post-hospital discharge following a fall. A social component would be a useful addition to falls-prevention strategies, utilising existing community nursing organisations.

Language: en

Keywords

Exercise; education; medication; older