Does hospitalisation impact the successful ageing of community-dwelling older adults? A propensity score matching analysis using the Korean national survey data

Objectives: For community-dwelling older adults with hospitalisation experience, it is necessary to be strategic when promoting successful ageing. This study aimed to investigate whether components of successful ageing (i.e., diseases and complications, functions and engagement with life) differ according to hospitalisation experience in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A secondary data analysis with the Korean national survey was performed. Using propensity score matching, 1812 older adults with hospitalisation experience were matched to 1812 older adults without hospitalisation experience. Sampling weight of the survey was considered for all statistical analyses. Results: The hospitalisation experienced group had more chronic illnesses, malnourishment, impairment in physical function, and depressive symptoms, and less activity in terms of working and social activities. There were no differences in cognitive function or religious activities. Conclusions: Older adults with hospitalisation experience were less likely to experience successful ageing. To facilitate successful ageing of community-dwelling older adults with hospitalisation experience, nursing interventions for effective transitional care to encourage the use of community resources and participation in social activities are needed.