The Effect of Energy Balance on Discharge to Home of Frail Elderly Persons in a Health Facility for the Aged

Abstract

[Purpose] This study examined the effect of energy balance on the discharge to home of frail elderly persons in a health facility for the aged. [Subjects] One hundred twenty-one frail elderly persons receiving residential care in a health facility for the aged. [Methods] Participants were divided into the following two groups: the discharge to home group (n=58), and the residential care group (n=63). We determined energy consumption, energy intake, energy balance, demographic data and the Functional Independence Measure of all the subjects. Energy consumption was calculated using METs values and a 24-h timetable. Evaluations were conducted 1 month after admission. [Results] Energy balance differed significantly between the two groups. [Conclusion] The results of this study suggest that controlling energy balance would support discharge to home of frail elderly persons.