Relationship between Returning Home from a Convalescent Rehabilitation Ward and Nutritional Index

Abstract

[Purpose] In this study, we aimed to clarify the nutritional indices related to returning home from a convalescent rehabilitation ward (hereinafter referred to as a convalescent ward). [Participants and Methods] At the time of discharge from a convalescent ward, we assessed 79 patients using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, Body Mass Index, and the perimeter of the lower leg, as nutritional indices. We also evaluated the exercise and cognitive scores of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), the presence/absence of a caregiver, age, illness, and gender of the participants. We performed a multiple regression analysis on items derived from a comparison of the returning home and the not returning home groups. [Results] Multiple regression analysis identified the total FIM exercise score, and the presence/absence of a caregiver, as relevant factors. [Conclusion] Although no nutritional indicators were related to returning home, the total FIM exercise score, as well as the presence/absence of a caregiver, significantly correlated with returning home.