Journal of hospital medicine : an official publication of the Society of Hospital Medicine
-
Review
Association of physical function with hospital readmissions among older adults: A systematic review.
Hospital readmissions pose significant burdens on healthcare systems, particularly among older adults. While efforts to reduce readmissions have historically focused on medical management, emerging evidence suggests physical function may also play a role in successful care transitions. However, there is a limited understanding of the relationship between functional measures and readmission risk. This systematic review aims to assess the association between physical function impairments and hospital readmissions. ⋯ Functional impairments are robust predictors of hospital readmissions in older adults. Routine assessment of physical function during hospitalization can improve risk stratification and may support successful care transitions, particularly in older adults.