Optimizing the transitional care capacity of elderly caregivers for elderly patients with enterostomy: a cross-sectional study in Chinese population

Abstract Background and objective: The stage of patients' rehabilitation from medical environment to home environment after discharge is called transition period. It is very important to give patients active and effective care during the transition period to promote their rehabilitation. In China, most of the caregivers of enterostomy patients are elderly. This study mainly explores the status quo of caregivers' transitional care ability for elderly enterostomy patients and analyzes its influencing factors. Methods: From January 2022 to February 2023, the caregivers of elderly patients with enterostomy in 4 Class ⅲ Grade A hospitals in Wuhan were recruited and investigated with the general information questionnaire and the Family Caregiver Ability Scale. Results The total score of caregiving ability of elderly caregivers was 30.58±1.32, which was at a low level. There was a significant correlation between the caregiver's age, education level, duration of care, assisting the caregiver, and whether the patient had stoma complications and their caring ability. Conclusions The care ability of elderly caregivers during the transitional period of enterostomy is low. We should pay attention to the continuity of care services during the transitional period of discharge, and take targeted interventions combined with the needs and influencing factors of elderly caregivers to promote their care ability.