SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Older Adult Patients' Perspectives on Physical Activity During Hospitalization: A Mixed Methods Analysis

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A mixed-methods study conducted in July–August 2024 at a large academic medical center examined physical activity goals, expectations, and barriers among hospitalized adults age 65 and older. Of 80 screened patients, 69 participated. Data came from electronic medical records and in-person surveys, using measures including the Katz ADL Index, AM-PAC “6-Clicks,” and the Johns Hopkins Highest Level of Mobility scale.<br /><br />Participants had substantial comorbidity and functional vulnerability: median age was 74, median Charlson score was 7, and the median hospital stay was 9 days. Nearly all had fall precautions ordered, and many received physical or occupational therapy consultations. Despite this, most older adults wanted to maintain or increase their activity during hospitalization.<br /><br />The main barriers to activity were lack of energy (30.4%), poor health (26.1%), need for rest (17.4%), and pain (13.0%). The findings suggest that, even in the setting of significant illness and routine fall precautions, hospitalized older adults often prefer to stay active. However, biopsychosocial obstacles can limit participation.<br /><br />The study concludes that targeted interventions are needed to help older adults overcome these barriers, support mobility during hospitalization, and reduce the risk of hospitalization-associated deconditioning, loss of independence, and rehospitalization.

Asset Subtitle

David Paje

Meta Tag

Author List David Paje, Shuo Tian, Stephanie Taylor, Trevor Denton

Category Research

Concept Hospitalization-associated Deconditioning

Concept Older Adults

Concept Low Mobility

Concept Physical Activity

Concept Hospitalization

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization University of Michigan

Presenting Author David Paje

Track Geriatrics

Keywords

hospitalized older adults

physical activity goals

mobility barriers

mixed-methods study

hospitalization-associated deconditioning

fall precautions

functional vulnerability

inpatient mobility

activity expectations

rehabilitation interventions

Hospitalization-associated Deconditioning

Older Adults

Low Mobility

Physical Activity

Hospitalization