Evaluation of a rehabilitation component of home care for homebound elderly

Fifty-seven elderly homebound patients with musculoskeletal disability were randomized to a stepped-up outreach rehabilitation program or to usual treatment. Sixty-four percent of patient goals were met, but overall there were no significant differences in functional scores, institutionalization, or quality of life. Twenty-three patients had maintained clinical improvement at the end of the study. The services were achieved at a modest marginal cost.