Effects of Posthospital Informal Care on Nursing Home Discharge

This study examines the effect of family caregiving on the probability that nursing home residents would be discharged to the community. The effect of the number of hours of informal care on the probability of nursing home discharge was estimated using a logistic regression of a 6-week postadmission location (home or institution) on the number of hours of informal care in the first 2 weeks in the nursing home, of caregiver visits, and other patient factors. The odds of being discharged to their home were higher for those who received more care that is informal. Informal care may increase the quality and the amount of care that residents receive, thus, influencing rehabilitation outcomes and returns to home. Caregiving families may advocate for residents and signal to nursing home staff that the resident has a well-functioning support system.