title: Improving older trauma patients' outcomes through targeted occupational therapy and functional conditioning.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Hospitalized older people are at risk of functional decline, and risk increases with length of stay (LOS). We measured the impact on LOS and discharge destination of targeted occupational therapy and a functional conditioning program (FCP) for older adults admitted to a metropolitan trauma unit.
  
  
  METHODS
  The intervention group consisted of 50 participants > 65 yr old living independently in the community before admission. Outcomes were compared with historical control group data (N = 105).
  
  
  RESULTS
  The intervention group's mean LOS was 2 days less than that of the control group (p = .04). A higher proportion in the intervention group was also discharged to home, but the difference was not statistically significant. Referrals to occupational therapy increased significantly (p = .05), and participants were seen 1.5 days sooner (p = .003) than the control group. Referral to FCP was 7 times higher in the intervention group (p = .001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Targeted occupational therapy and FCP can improve LOS in older trauma patients.
authors: Occupational Therapy Department, The Alfred Hospital, PO Box 315, Prahran 3181, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. l.obrien@alfred.org.au
authors: Lisa
authors: L
authors: O'Brien
authors: Shai
authors: S
authors: Bynon
authors: Jacqui
authors: J
authors: Morarty
authors: Scott
authors: S
authors: Presnell
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D010351:Patient Discharge; D013997:Time Factors; D014947:Wounds and Injuries