Home-based rehab for seniors improves quality of life, saves money

WATERLOO, ON, June 5, 2013 /CNW/ - Seniors with musculoskeletal disorders, like arthritis or broken bones, who get rehabilitation at home are less likely to need admission to hospital or long-term care homes, say researchers from the University of Waterloo and University of Toronto.

The study, published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, also found that older patients who receive physiotherapy and occupational therapy in their own home are more likely to be discharged from home care services altogether after treatment.

"Fewer hospital admissions and a decreased demand for home care services would represent a significant reduction in the government's overall health costs," said Professor Paul Stolee, of the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences at Waterloo.

"The aging of the population is often seen as the biggest cause of increasing health care costs, which is not true," said Professor Stolee. "This study provides evidence that if older people get the right services at the right time, this can actually reduce their cost to the health system, while improving their quality of life."

Study participants who received physiotherapy or occupational therapy were more likely to improve in their ability to look after themselves, to perform necessary household tasks, or to move around independently.

"Many more older people could benefit from physiotherapy or occupational therapy than actually receive these services. Our data shows that rehab services in home care are a worthwhile investment, but despite its benefits, community-based rehabilitation is not adequately funded," said Professor Stolee.

Although access to rehabilitation services has been limited for many older adults, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care recently announced efforts to improve access to physiotherapy, exercise and fall prevention classes for seniors.

About the University of Waterloo

In just half a century, the University of Waterloo, located at the heart of Canada's technology hub, has become one of Canada's leading comprehensive universities with 35,000 full- and part-time students in undergraduate and graduate programs. Waterloo, as home to the world's largest post-secondary co-operative education program, embraces its connections to the world and encourages enterprising partnerships in learning, research and discovery. In the next decade, the university is committed to building a better future for Canada and the world by championing innovation and collaboration to create solutions relevant to the needs of today and tomorrow. For more information about Waterloo, please visit www.uwaterloo.ca.

Professor Paul Stolee is available for interview.

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SOURCE: University of Waterloo

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