Accidents Associated with Bathing in Home Care Services for the Aged in Japan
Author Information
Author(s): Hayasaka Shinya, Okayama Masanobu, Ishikawa Shizukiyo, Nakamura Yosikazu, Kajii Eiji
Primary Institution: Jichi Medical School, Tochigi, Japan
Hypothesis
What kinds of accidents happen associated with bathing in home care services for the aged in Japan?
Conclusion
The study revealed that there were significant accidents associated with bathing in home care services for the aged in Japan, with loss of consciousness being the most frequent symptom and some patients dying as a result.
Supporting Evidence
- Of the councils that replied, 430 (63%) reported providing bathing service for the aged.
- 108 (25%) of the councils that provided bathing services experienced accidents.
- 62 (48%) patients presented symptoms of diseases or had accidents after bathing.
- 14 (11%) patients died as a result of bathing accidents.
Takeaway
This study found that many elderly people have accidents while bathing at home, and some even die from it. It's important for caregivers to watch them closely before and after bathing.
Methodology
A cross-sectional postal questionnaire survey was conducted with 828 councils, with a response rate of 82%, focusing on accidents associated with bathing services.
Potential Biases
Councils may have been disinclined to report accidents, leading to potential underreporting.
Limitations
There may have been more accidents that were not reported, and the study did not analyze relationships between accidents and council characteristics.
Participant Demographics
Patients had a mean age of 80.7 years, with 71 females (55%) and 56 males (43%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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