Development of the Houston-Apollo model for older people living in remote areas in Taiwan

Senior healthcare is challenging in remote areas, particularly in an economically disadvantaged population. This study examined the benefits of a combined healthcare system (Houston-Apollo model) in improvements of physical performance and medical care utilization of local older people.

People aged ≥65 years who participated in congregate meal services were recruited. Using concepts of telemedicine and community health records, participants received consultation from local general physicians, who provided advice or arranged referrals to the National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch. Physical parameters including blood pressure, body mass index, grip strength, walking speed, and five times sit-to-stand test (FTSST) were transferred to the National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch and local doctors in a timely manner. Changes in physical parameters and utilization of healthcare facilities were measured at the beginning of recruitment and 1 year later.

In the 470 registered participants, 66% had hypertension, 50% had weakness in grip strength, 58% were slow at FTSST and 78% had disability in 6-meter walking speed. In total, 97 participants were followed up at 1 year. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure (mmHg) decreased from 137.4 to 133.3 (P = 0.019) and from 76.9 to 74.4 (P = 0.008), respectively. The time of FTSST (s) decreased from 11.3 to 10.4 (P = 0.011). The walking speed (m/s) increased from 0.71 to 0.74 (P = 0.039). Medical and dental outpatient usage increased by 2 and 1.14 times, respectively.

The Houston-Apollo model could provide benefits for the physical status of older adults, promote proactive and preventive healthcare utilization, and contribute to medical equality. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; ••: ••-••.