The effectiveness of a transitional care program for frail older adults between hospital and home: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a transitional care program developed for frail older adults. A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted. Thirty-two frail older adults were enrolled in the study. The experimental group was provided the transitional care program for 12 weeks (e.g., inpatient intervention, discharge intervention, and follow-up intervention), while the control group was provided the usual care. The program improved transition conditions (i.e., family interaction and community resource utilization) and transition response (i.e., unplanned emergency room visit rate, depression, and self-rated health). The transitional care program was effective in improving some health service utilization and clinical outcomes of frail older adults experiencing hospital-to-home transition; it thus contributed to promoting a safe transition experience.