Does Social-Demographic Information Predict Residential Outcomes in Elderly Stroke Rehabilitation Patients in Hong Kong?

Abstract

Background: Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death and disability in Hong Kong, but only a few studies on residential outcomes have been conducted locally. This study intended to identify predictors of the residential outcomes of elderly stroke rehabilitation patients using social-demographic information controlling for local functional variables. Methods: A sample of 619 elderly stroke rehabilitation patients was extracted from the records of the Tung Wah Hospital from January 2001 to December 2003. Chi square, t tests, and logistic regression were performed. Results: Significant predictors were age, marital status, financial support, discharge FIM score, and discharge vocational status. Those younger than 80 were 47% more likely to return home than those older than 80 years (OR = 0.53, CI = 0.29- 0.98, P = 0.042). Welfare nonrecipients were 68% more likely to return home than welfare recipients (OR = 0.32, CI = 0.14-0.72, P = 0.006). Those alone were 3 times more likely to enter institution than those married (OR = 3.09, CI = 1.67-5.72, P = 0.000). Those unable to return to work were almost 4 times more likely to enter an institution than those able to return to work (OR = 3.68, CI = 1.00-13.46, P = 0.049). Those with greater functional independence as measured by FIM scores were 3% more likely to return home than those with lower FIM scores (OR = 0.97, CI = 0.95-0.99, P = 0.000). Conclusion: The intervention and longterm care of stroke patients should focus more on psychosocial aspects.