A two-year study of patients 65 and over found those with dementia who were discharged to a skilled nursing facility were readmitted to a hospital less quickly than those who were discharged to a home. Inversely, patients without dementia who were discharged to a skilled nursing facility had higher readmission rates than if discharged to a community setting.
Researchers suggested skilled nursing facilities provide better medication adherence and earlier recognition of symptoms, helping to prevent readmission. Additionally, researchers said physical illness and cognitive function should factor into transition plans for patients.
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