Advantages & disadvantages of elderly admission to hospital

Question 1

What are some advantages of admitting the elderly to the hospital?

Answer 1

1. Hospital can be the right place in certain situations e.g. stroke or heart attack.
2. Allows drug reviews to occur & check compliance.
3. Theoretically, better planning of investigations, diagnosis and multi-professional working.
4. React to emergency situations quicker in a hospital setting. Specialists are on hand.

Question 2

What are some disadvantages of admitting the elderly to the hospital?

Answer 2

1. Physical decline & deconditioning by staying bedbound.
2. Significantly increased risk of developing delirium (acute confusion).
3. Risk of hospital aquired infection - can lead to serious complications or death.
4. Admission can disrupt the relationship between patient & carer at home. Can be difficult to re-establish the bond.
5. Higher risk of death within 6 months of a fall with prolonged admission.
6. It’s expensive.