Hospitalisation for lower respiratory viral infections in older people in residential aged care facilities. (30th June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Caughey, Gillian E.; Jorissen, Robert N.; Lang, Catherine; Wesselingh, Steve L.; Inacio, Maria C.
• Is Part Of: Australasian journal on ageing. Volume 41:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: e58
• Page End: e66
• Publication Date: 2021-06-30
• Subjects: health services for the aged -- hospitalization -- mortality -- Respiratory Tract Infections I respiratory viral infection; Older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- Australia -- Periodicals; Old age -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Pacific Area -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12976
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1440-6381

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To quantify incidence, trends and outcomes associated with lower respiratory viral infection (LRVI) hospitalisations in Australian residential aged care facilities (RACFs). Methods: A population‐based cohort study of residents in RACFs aged ≥65 years from New South Wales (NSW), South Australia (SA) and Victoria (VIC) using data from the Registry of Senior Australians (2013‐2016) was conducted. Age‐ and sex‐standardised monthly and yearly LRVI hospitalisation incidences were calculated, and time trends and risk factors were assessed. Results: Of 268 657 residents included over the study period, 12% had ≥1 LRVI hospitalisation. Average annual incidence/1000 residents was 7.1 [6.9‐7.2] in 2013, increasing to 7.8 [7.7‐8.1] in 2016. Males, increasing co‐morbidity, presence of CHF, respiratory disease and hypertension had a higher incidence of LRVI hospitalisation. In‐hospital mortality was 14%. Within 30 days following discharge, 15% died and 8% were readmitted. Conclusions: Prior to COVID‐19, incidence of hospitalisation for LRVI in Australia's residential aged care population was increasing and was associated with significant morbidity and mortality.