Supporting Transitions in Care for Older Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity

The aim of the current study was to compare outcomes for older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity following participation in a transitional care intervention that included diabetes self-management education (DSME) and homecare. The three groups analyzed comprised an inpatient DSME plus homecare group (n = 35); an inpatient DSME only group (n = 100); and a group who received usual care (n = 45). Outcomes of interest included rehospitalization rates and hemoglobin A1C (A1C) for up to 1-year post hospital discharge. Rates of rehospitalization and A1C improved for older adults who received nurse-led inpatient DSME and homecare during transitions of care from hospital to home. Rehospitalization rates up to 90 days were decreased for the DSME plus homecare group (10%) compared to DSME only (20%) and usual care groups (26.7%) (p < 0.05). A decrease of -0.4 and -2.3 A1C units was observed for the DSME group and DSME plus homecare group, respectively, at 90 days. These results support a transitional care educational intervention for older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Targets: Older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Intervention Description: Transitional care intervention including diabetes self-management education and homecare. Mechanisms of Action: Inpatient diabetes education and homecare helps improve rates of rehospitalization and hemoglobin A1C during care transitions from hospital to home. Outcomes: Rehospitalization rates, glycemic control (i.e., A1C level).