Exploring outcomes after critical illness in the elderly.

Outcomes for elderly patients after critical illness have been examined predominantly in terms of survival and selected aspects of functional status. The objectives of this study were to explore and compare the impact of intensive care unit treatment on health and functional status outcomes among 196 elderly and middle-age patients. Functional and health status outcomes did not differ in longitudinal assessments at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge from the intensive care unit. Severity of illness, not age, was the best predictor of physical functioning. Despite having more documented discharge planning, elderly patients reported concern about managing their care at home and knowing less about their medications, which have direct implications for care.