Long-term health and mobility of older adults following traumatic injury: a qualitative longitudinal study.
Sandra C ReederShanthi AmeratungaJennie Louise PonsfordMark FitzgeraldRonan LyonsAndrew NunnChristina EkegrenPeter CameronBelinda GabbePublished in: Disability and rehabilitation (2021)
In our cohort, the intertwined combination of ageing, injury, and comorbid conditions negatively affected health and mobility, reinforcing the need for preventative strategies.Implications for rehabilitationOlder adults recovering from traumatic injury may benefit from specialised care pathways that offer long-term and tailored therapies, with programs and services specific to their needs and goals.An integrated service approach by injury insurers, health care, primary care, disability, and aged care could more clearly identify and effectively address the individual needs and goals of older adults with complex conditions.Health and social services that work with people with injuries to develop personalised coping strategies can reduce anxiety related to uncertainty about the future, promote well-being, and support participation in valued activities.