(SASKATOON) June 11, 2001 -- Almost all hospital
admissions for the elderly are appropriate and necessary but some
stay too long in hospital, according to a Saskatoon District Health
study.
The study called, "Hospital and Home Care for the Elderly
Client in Saskatoon," found that out of 967 elderly patients
(age 75 and older), one in four patients had a delayed discharge
from hospital. The characteristics of these patients include cognitive
impairment; more than 80 years old; have had previous Home Care;
and have more disability with daily living.
"Many of these people could have been discharged with Home
Care or to a Convalescent Unit, rather than remaining in hospital,
"says Dr. Suzanne Sheppard, Professional Leader of Physical
Therapy, Saskatoon District Health. "A convalescent unit could
provide care for those patients who do not need to be in hospital
but are not ready to go home."
The study also revealed that the 30 per cent of patients who received
home care services are generally in poor health and at greater risk
of re-admission into hospital.
The findings of this study add important information to the District's
knowledge of the hospital and home care services provided to our
elderly population, as well as a description of this population's
health status, says Sheppard.
The study was funded through Health Canada's, Health Transition
Fund, which provided almost one quarter million dollars for the
18 month study, involving 967 District patients and 573 caregivers.
All patients were age 75 and older.
Other Findings
- average length of hospital stay was 11.7 days
- almost 50% did not receive any post-acute services
- 80% of the participants felt they had been discharged at the
right time
- 85% of participants were highly satisfied or satisfied with
their care
- 30 -
For more information please contact:
Marielle Gauthier
Communication Counsellor
Saskatoon District Health
(306) 655-1028
Saskatoon Health Region
"Healthiest people, healthiest communities, exceptional service."
back to 2001 Archives
|
