A systematic literature review was carried out to assess the risk factors for readmission to the emergency department in people aged 75 and over. This review shows that certain socio-demographic factors (older age, male gender, not being single), certain underlying conditions (cardio-respiratory diseases, diabetes, cognitive impairment, cancer, depression), a recent history of falling, and impaired autonomy prior to admission are risk factors for readmission to the emergency department more than the cause of admission itself or its severity in people aged 75 and over. The best predictive score for readmission to the emergency department for elderly patients remains to be determined, as does the systematic identification of risk factors associated with specific management in the oldest at-risk group to reduce their readmission after a first visit to the emergency department.
Keywords: emergency department; old people; readmission.