Complexity of Family Caregiving and Discharge Planning

Abstract

Older adults and their family caregivers face numerous decisions about hospital discharge, including where they will go and how they will receive care. Older adults who account for nearly 37% of all hospital discharges often need care and support of family members at the time of hospital discharge. This study examines decisions made by hospitalized older adults, families, and health care team members (HCTMs) about hospital discharge. The sample included older adults ( n = 13, average age 84), family members ( n = 12, average age 71), and HCTMs ( n = 7, average age 47). Findings revealed the complexity of hospital discharge planning for older adults through five themes as follows: (a) home, (b) staying independent, (c) “advocating for them,” (d) deciding what to tell, and (e) changing the plan.