Decoding EHR Data: The Role of Social Support in Pressure Injuries Among Homebound Older Adults
2024

The Role of Social Support in Pressure Injuries Among Homebound Older Adults

Sample size: 1770 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Christine Chow, Yijung Kim, Lauren Bangerter, Karl De Jonge

Primary Institution: Georgetown University Medical Center

Hypothesis

The study explores how social risk factors influence pressure injuries among homebound older adults.

Conclusion

Social support is significantly related to pressure injuries in homebound older adults, indicating a need for further investigation.

Supporting Evidence

  • Homebound older adults are increasingly susceptible to pressure injuries due to aging.
  • The study analyzed clinical notes to identify psychosocial factors influencing pressure ulcers.
  • Social support was identified as a unique factor related to pressure injuries.

Takeaway

Older adults who stay at home can get sores on their skin, and having friends or family to help them might make a difference.

Methodology

The study used electronic health records and clinical notes analyzed with a natural language processing algorithm.

Limitations

The impact of social risk factors remains largely understudied.

Participant Demographics

Mean age 86.55, 78% female, 84% Black or African American.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.4154

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