Together in Care: An Enhanced Meals on Wheels Intervention Designed to Reduce Rehospitalizations among Older Adults with Cardiopulmonary Disease—Preliminary Findings

Top Things to Know

The Meals on Wheels intervention provided three months of post-discharge support that included nutritionally tailored meal deliveries, home safety inspections, medical supply allocation, and daily social engagement through structured check-ins.

Among the 84 participants who completed the program, total hospitalization costs during the three-month intervention period were significantly lower ($435,258) compared to the three months before enrollment ($1,445,637, p < 0.01). The program particularly benefited patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to zero ICU admissions post-enrollment, further reducing healthcare expenditures.

Despite 32.1% of participants experiencing 30-day readmission, the intervention reduced hospital admissions overall while increasing emergency room visits that did not lead to hospitalization, suggesting improved outpatient management. Additionally, the program addressed key social determinants of health such as health literacy, access to medical equipment, and social isolation, which contributed to better adherence to care plans and reduced complications.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study evaluated an enhanced Meals on Wheels intervention aimed at reducing rehospitalizations among older adults with cardiopulmonary disease. Conducted at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, the study involved 84 participants who received food delivery, home safety inspections, social engagement, and medical supply allocation over three months. The findings showed a significant reduction in hospital expenditures, from $1,445,637 to $435,258, and a decrease in rehospitalizations and emergency room visits.