Abstract
Background and Objectives
Trauma in older people is emerging as a major health issue, with falls being the most common cause. Despite existing guidelines for trauma care of older populations, adoption is limited and undertreatment persists. This study aimed to explore the needs and preferences of older people and their families following traumatic injuries and define key components of a trauma care model for older populations.
Research Design and Methods
This research adopted participatory design principles, engaging older people and their families, who had interacted with local healthcare services, to participate in a workshop which included structured activities and questions designed to facilitate discussion of the participants’ experiences of trauma and subsequent healthcare. Qualitative data were collected, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
Seven patients and six family members attended one of two workshops. Most patient participants were women, with a mean age of 82 years. Communication, empathy in care, and system-related factors were identified as domains impacting care experience. Recovery goals were focused on regaining independence, mobilizing with confidence, and social connection, with rehabilitation and support systems recognized as essential to facilitate progress. Participants recommended: increased communication; greater staff expertise and training; improved access to rehabilitation and home support; and a key “liaison” healthcare staff member.
Discussion and Implications
This study underscores the importance of a comprehensive and person-centered approach to trauma care for older people, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers striving to enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Trauma in older people is emerging as a major health issue, with falls being the most common cause. Despite existing guidelines for trauma care of older populations, adoption is limited and undertreatment persists. This study aimed to explore the needs and preferences of older people and their families following traumatic injuries and define key components of a trauma care model for older populations.
Research Design and Methods
This research adopted participatory design principles, engaging older people and their families, who had interacted with local healthcare services, to participate in a workshop which included structured activities and questions designed to facilitate discussion of the participants’ experiences of trauma and subsequent healthcare. Qualitative data were collected, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
Seven patients and six family members attended one of two workshops. Most patient participants were women, with a mean age of 82 years. Communication, empathy in care, and system-related factors were identified as domains impacting care experience. Recovery goals were focused on regaining independence, mobilizing with confidence, and social connection, with rehabilitation and support systems recognized as essential to facilitate progress. Participants recommended: increased communication; greater staff expertise and training; improved access to rehabilitation and home support; and a key “liaison” healthcare staff member.
Discussion and Implications
This study underscores the importance of a comprehensive and person-centered approach to trauma care for older people, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers striving to enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for this vulnerable population.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Research Square |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | In preparation - 30 Mar 2024 |
Keywords
- Healthcare experience
- Falls
- Rehabilitation
- Critical pathways
- Recovery pathway
- Care model