Supporting independence in hospitalized elders in acute care

Planning for care of the older adult is especially important during critical illness states when recovery can be uncertain. Patients often present to the ICU with complex illness; therefore, targeting measures to prevent functional status decline is important for hospitalized elders, who are at risk for prolonged recovery from critical illness. Addressing and planning for the needs of hospitalized elders, including the integration of strategies to target independence, is a key area of focus for nursing care. This article provides a review of the literature on strategies for promoting independence during acute illness and includes recommendations for practice, education, research, and policy to promote optimal care for hospitalized elders in acute care.