Post-Acute Care Determination for Hospitalized Older Adults

Purpose of ReviewA significant percentage of hospitalized older adults are discharged to a post-acute care (PAC) setting. This review will discuss the characteristics of the main PAC options in the USA and the key evaluation criterion to be utilized in determining the most appropriate PAC setting for an older hospitalized patient. Recent FindingsThere is limited literature regarding PAC determination in the USA. However, this is a growing area of interest due to PAC costs and the growing older adult population. A standardized method of assessment for older adult patients nearing hospital discharge is presented including recent literature regarding the functional evaluation of these patients. Summary The PAC determination process for hospitalized older adults can be challenging. A systematic evaluation procedure may reduce the complexity of this process. However, research to determine the PAC setting that will result in the optimal functional recovery of these older adults, while also minimizing their risk of readmission, is warranted.