Discharge planning for older people: a review of current research

The NHS and Community Care Act 1990 emphasized the importance of discharge planning for elders and recognized the role of community health nurses in promoting continuity of care. Given the emphasis on discharge planning for vulnerable populations at policy level, it is timely for nurses to examine the research literature for evidence that may guide practice. This article reviews the key findings of research related specifically to discharge planning for older people and suggests areas in which additional research is needed.