Health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity: a multiperspective approach

Scand J Caring Sci. 2017 Mar;31(1):96-103. doi: 10.1111/scs.12322. Epub 2016 May 10.

Abstract

Multimorbidity, a condition common among older adults, may be regarded as a failure of a complex system. The aim of this study was to describe the core components in health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity. A cross-sectional design included two methods: individual interviews and group discussions. A total of 105 participants included older adults with multimorbidity and their relatives, care staff and healthcare policymakers. Data were analysed using content analysis. The results show that seven core components comprise a multiperspective view of health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity: political steering, leadership, cooperation, competence, support for relatives, availability and continuity. Steps should be taken to ensure that every older adult with multimorbidity has a treatment plan according to a multiperspective view to prevent fragmentation of their health care. This study provides relevant evidence developing a multiperspective model of health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity.

Keywords: health care; management; multimorbidity; multiperspective; older adults; social care.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chronic Disease / epidemiology
  • Chronic Disease / therapy*
  • Comorbidity*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Delivery of Health Care / organization & administration*
  • Family / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Personnel / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Inpatients / psychology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Social Support*