Inpatient versus home-based rehabilitation for older adults with musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review

Objective: To review and summarize available evidence to compare the outcomes of home-based rehabilitation to inpatient rehabilitation for older patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Data sources: Relevant articles published prior to August 2011 were identified using MEDLINE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Review methods: English-language articles that compared patient outcomes of home-based and inpatient rehabilitation for older adults were included. Outpatient care was not included as home-based or inpatient rehabilitation. Methodological quality of included studies was evaluated by two reviewers using the PEDro scale. Results: A systematic search yielded eight randomized controlled trials and four cohort studies. Older adults who received rehabilitation in the home had equal or higher gains than the inpatient group in function, cognition, and quality of life; they also reported higher satisfaction. Conclusion: Home-based rehabilitation may be an effective alternative for treating older patients with musculoskeletal conditions.