New home-based support service could reduce hospital admissions for older adults

A new home-based support service aimed at helping older adults with early signs of frailty could significantly reduce emergency hospital admissions and save the NHS money, according to a study led by UCL researchers.

Published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, the study evaluated the effectiveness and cost benefits of a service designed to help older people stay independent and healthy for longer. The results showed that participants receiving this personalized support had a 35% reduction in unplanned hospital visits, leading to an average saving of £586 per person per year for the NHS.

How the Service Works

The intervention involved six home visits from a trained support worker over the course of a year. Each visit was tailored to the individual’s needs and focused on:

Home exercise programs to improve strength and mobility
Nutritional support to boost energy levels
Mental well-being support
Social engagement to reduce loneliness

Study Findings

The trial involved 388 people over the age of 65 across three areas of the UK (London, Hertfordshire, and Yorkshire). Half of the participants (195 people) received the home-based service, while the other half (193 people) continued with their usual care.

After one year, researchers found:

A 35% reduction in emergency hospital admissions for those receiving the service.
Small improvements in well-being, psychological distress, and frailty scores.
No significant improvement in self-care independence.

Lead researcher Professor Kate Walters from UCL Epidemiology & Health Care highlighted the potential benefits of expanding the service nationwide. “By providing personalized home-based support, we can help people maintain their independence and reduce the strain on hospitals,” she said.

A Step Toward Preventative Care

The study supports Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s initiative to shift focus from hospital care to community-based and preventative health measures.

Andrew Farmer, Director of the NIHR Health Technology Assessment Programme, emphasized the importance of early intervention: “By addressing key factors like strength, nutrition, and social engagement, we can slow deterioration and reduce the need for intensive care.”

What’s Next?

With adequate funding, researchers believe the service could be available across the UK within two years. Professor Walters noted that investing in preventative care now could lead to long-term savings for the NHS, while also improving the quality of life for older adults.

The research findings can be found in The Lancet Healthy Longevity.