Age Differences in Decision Support Network Size for Joint Replacement Candidates
Author Information
Author(s): Wild Tess, Riffin Catherine, Löckenhoff Corinna
Primary Institution: Cornell University
Hypothesis
Older potential total joint replacement candidates have smaller decision support networks compared to younger candidates.
Conclusion
Older candidates for total joint replacement identified fewer members in their decision support networks than younger candidates.
Supporting Evidence
- Arthritis affects tens of millions of middle-aged and older adults.
- Total joint replacement can improve quality of life and physical functioning in arthritis patients.
- Older patients are more hesitant to pursue surgical intervention.
Takeaway
As people get older, they tend to have fewer friends and family to help them make decisions about surgery.
Methodology
The study used a name-elicitation approach to collect data on the size of decision support networks from potential total joint replacement candidates.
Participant Demographics
Participants had a mean age of 67.88 years, with ages ranging from 40 to 93 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.048
Statistical Significance
p=0.048
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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