Telesurveillance for Frail Elderly at Home
Author Information
Author(s): Vincent Claude, Reinharz Daniel, Deaudelin Isabelle, Garceau Mathieu, Talbot Lise R
Primary Institution: Laval University
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the outcomes and cost evolution of a nurse-staffed telesurveillance system for frail elderly living at home.
Conclusion
The study found that a nurse-staffed telesurveillance service is effective and efficient, reducing costs and not negatively impacting the well-being of elderly individuals and their families.
Supporting Evidence
- Caregivers' psychological burden decreased substantially.
- Total cost of health and social public services used per client dropped by 17% after the first 3 months and by 39% in the second 3 months.
- Length of hospital stays dropped from 13 to 4 days.
Takeaway
This study shows that using a phone service to check on elderly people at home can help them stay safe and save money on health care.
Methodology
A quasi-experimental design was used with two follow-ups over a six-month period, involving 38 patients and their caregivers.
Potential Biases
Ethical concerns limited the ability to create a control group, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size, short follow-up period, and lacked a control group.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily elderly women with an average age of 81, living with various health issues.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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