Transition from Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitation Units to home

Abstract

As the population continues to age, the number of hospitalised elderly will increase. It is sometimes commented that this elderly population is being discharged home "quicker and sicker". One response to this problem in Canada has been the development of Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitation Units (GARU). The goal of these units is to maximise the function of the elderly and discharge them to the community. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors related to the transition from a GARU to home. The researcher interviewed twenty-three individuals over a six-month period who were discharged from a GARU in a long-term care facility in Winnipeg. The Neuman Model of Nursing was the theoretical framework upon which this research was based. This study included both a quantitative and qualitative component. Five key factors, including informal and formal support, functional ability, self-perceived health, well being, and preparedness for discharge were examined with regards to their relationship to theindividual's perception of ease of transition home.