Abstract:

Describes a home health prevention program instituted by a long term care facility, which was designed to reduce the incidence of falls, fractures, and adverse drug reactions among community-dwelling residents. A professional nurse conducted three free home assessments with 125 adults aged 60 to 97, almost half of whom lived alone. The first visit consisted of a room-by-room home assessment and recommendations; follow-up interviews were conducted 3 and 5 months later. The major areas of need noted in the first interview were changes in activities or the environment to avert falls and issues of physical health, including medication use. Other areas of need frequently noted were referrals to other agencies, recommendations for emergency repairs or services, and activities related to social or emotional support. Overall, the recommendations appeared to be well-received, and many participants looked forward to the social contact with the nurse. The costs in personnel and other expenses were about $50,000, but it was considered worthwhile in terms of the improved quality of life resulting from maintaining the elder person in the community.