What does integrated care mean from an older person's perspective? A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Management
• Patient Experience Research

Background:

• Integrated care models are increasingly important for managing the complex health needs of older adults.
• Understanding older adults' perspectives is crucial for developing effective and patient-centered integrated care strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map and synthesize the existing literature on older adults' perceptions and experiences of integrated care.
• To identify key themes and desiderata from the perspective of older individuals regarding coordinated healthcare services.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review methodology was employed.
• Searches were conducted across four electronic databases (EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, ProQuest) and grey literature sources (Open Grey, Google Scholar).
• Studies reporting on empirical, interpretive, and critical research on integrated care experiences of adults aged 60 years and above were included.

Main Results:

• Thirty studies, selected from 436 initial articles, were included in the review.
• Older adults expressed a strong desire for continuity in care relationships and management.
• Key findings indicate a need for seamless transitions between services and settings, quick access, effective treatment, and support for self-care.

Conclusions:

• Older adults prioritize accessible, efficient, and coordinated care that respects their needs, preferences, rights, and safety.
• The relational, informational, and organizational aspects of care are highly salient from an older person's viewpoint.
• Findings can inform the development of patient-centered success measures for integrated care in diverse healthcare settings.