Evaluation design of a reactivation care program to prevent functional loss in hospitalised elderly: A cohort study including a randomised controlled trial
2011

Evaluation of a Reactivation Care Program for Hospitalized Elderly

Sample size: 1100 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Asmus-Szepesi Kirsten JE, Vreede Paul L, Nieboer Anna P, van Wijngaarden Jeroen DH, Bakker Ton JEM, Steyerberg Ewout W, Mackenbach Johan P

Primary Institution: Erasmus University Medical Centre

Hypothesis

Higher levels of integrated hospital health care for at-risk elderly will prevent functional loss and improve quality of life after hospital discharge.

Conclusion

The study aims to show that a new reactivation care program can help prevent functional loss in elderly patients after hospitalization.

Supporting Evidence

  • Elderly patients are at high risk for functional loss during hospital stays.
  • Integrated care programs may help maintain independence and quality of life.
  • Previous studies have shown benefits of specialized multidisciplinary geriatric interventions.

Takeaway

This study is trying to help older people who go to the hospital stay healthy and not lose their ability to do things on their own.

Methodology

The study uses a mixed methods design, including a quasi-experimental study and a nested randomized controlled trial, to evaluate the effects of a new reactivation care program.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the non-randomized nature of the cohort study and the possibility of contamination between groups.

Limitations

The study is mainly a cohort study and not a randomized controlled trial, which may introduce bias.

Participant Demographics

Elderly persons aged 65 years and older at risk for functional loss.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2318-11-36

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication