New Home-Based Support Service Could Cut Hospital Admissions for Older Adults and Save NHS Millions
A groundbreaking initiative designed to support older adults experiencing early frailty could reduce emergency hospital admissions by over a third, potentially saving the NHS significant costs, according to a new study led by UCL researchers.
The clinical trial, published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), assessed the impact of a personalized home-based support service. The program involved six tailored visits from a support worker to help older individuals stay healthy and independent. Interventions included home exercise routines, nutritional guidance, mental well-being support, and social engagement strategies.
The study involved 388 participants over 65, categorized as having “mild frailty,” across three UK regions—London, Hertfordshire, and Yorkshire. Among them, 195 received the home-based support service, while 193 continued with their usual care without additional assistance.
After a year-long follow-up, researchers observed a 35% drop in unplanned hospital admissions, equating to an average NHS saving of £586 per person over the study period. Additional benefits included modest improvements in well-being, psychological health, and frailty levels, although the intervention did not significantly enhance independence in self-care.
Lead researcher Professor Kate Walters (UCL Epidemiology & Health Care) emphasized the significance of the findings, stating, “By providing personalized support at home, we can help older adults maintain their independence, reduce hospital pressures, and improve overall well-being.”
The study aligns with the Health Secretary’s push to shift focus toward preventative and community-based care to ease NHS burdens. NIHR’s Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme Director, Andrew Farmer, highlighted the intervention’s potential in enhancing quality of life while lowering hospital and care costs.
With adequate funding, researchers believe the service could be available nationwide within two years, offering a proactive approach to aging care. Collaborating with Age UK, who played a key role in service delivery during the trial, the initiative demonstrates how early intervention can transform healthcare for older adults.
