Hospital-to-home transitional care as support for older adult's caregivers: a scoping review.

Abstract

Objective: To explore, in the literature, how transitional care from hospital to home supports the caregivers of older adults with functional dependence.

Method: Scoping review according to Joanna Briggs, with articles indexed in six databases and gray literature, from March to October 2022. Covidence Systematic Review was used to select the studies. The data obtained is described according to the modified PRISMA-ScR. The analysis and discussion were based on the Afaf Meleis Theory.

Results: 1.220 studies were identified and, after selection, nine publications were used for analysis. The studies found indicated that transitional care supported the caregiver of older people with functional dependence through health education, involvement in decision-making, emotional support, telemonitoring and home visits after discharge. These interventions improved care for older people, reduced anxiety and promoted a sense of security.

Conclusion: Transitional care helps the caregiver adapt to providing care at home and should be adjusted according to the caregiver's context and available support network.