Patient Activation and its Predictors in Hospitalized Older Adults in Singapore

Abstract

Background: Patient activation is critical in hospitalized older adults preparing for discharge as it enhances their ability to self-care at home. Little is known about how person-centred care and demographic predictors could influence activation in Asian patients.

Aims: To explore patient activation and its predictors in hospitalized older adults in Singapore.

Methods: Multi-centre cross-sectional survey of hospitalized older adults. Multivariable analysis conducted with age, gender, education, socioeconomic status, functional dependency and perception of person-centred care as potential predictors to patient activation.

Results: 300 older adults were surveyed, 65% were at the top two levels of activation. Perception of person-centred nursing care was the strongest predictor with the largest effect on patient activation, (β=0.22, b=3.48, 95% CI:1.70-5.26, p<0.001). Other predictors were age, education, income and independence in care.

Conclusion: Our study highlights the importance of person-centred nursing care in raising patient activation in hospitalized older adults, enhancing their capacity to self-care.

Keywords: Aged; Empowerment; Nursing care; Patient acceptance of healthcare; Self care.