282 SELF-REPORTED QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS COMPLETING A GERIATRIC REHABILITATION PROGRAM

Abstract

Abstract Background Geriatric Rehabilitation (GR) delivers person-centered care focused on achieving self-determined goals. While there is evidence for significant physical gain during GR, there is a paucity of articles describing its effect on self-reported Quality-of-Life (QoL). This study aims to ascertain the effect of GR on QoL and to assess whether positive effects persist even if patients do not achieve functional independence. Methods A retrospective review was conducted using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet data that is routinely collected for service evaluation purposes. All patients with complete data sets in 2021 were included. Barthel Index (BI) which quantifies functional independence and EQ5D which measures QoL were collected on admission and discharge. Both measures are scored out of one hundred, with higher scores indicating more positive results. Patients were divided into two groups based on BI at discharge (BI>90 and BI<90) and outcomes were analysed using t-tests. Results Among 122 patients, the mean age was 80 (range 64-96) and 50 (41%) were male. 68 patients (56%) had a BI>90 at discharge and 54 (44%) had a BI<90. Those with a BI<90 reported an overall improvement in QoL after GR (45 vs 68, p<0.0001), similar to those who achieved a BI>90 (55 vs 80, p<0.0001). However, those with BI>90 rated their QOL higher than those with a BI<90 (80 vs 68, p=0.008). Higher pre-morbid frailty level, fear of falling, and having delirium during GR were all significantly associated with worse outcomes (BI<90) at discharge. Conclusion This study demonstrates that GR improves self-reported QOL regardless of improvement in functional independence. Positive effects of GR have potential to extend beyond physical function, addressing other issues such as sarcopenia and fear of falling which improve QOL. Individually tailored GR programs should be considered for all older persons experiencing functional decline after hospitalisation or in the community.