Retrospective Analysis of Demographic, Psychiatric, and Physical Characteristics That Impact Length of Stay on an Inpatient Geriatric Psychiatric Unit

Currently, the aging adult population is rising fast and presenting multiple challenges for the US healthcare system. Older adults present unique challenges in their care of medical and psychiatric conditions. This study retrospectively examined characteristics that are associated with length of stay on an inpatient geriatric psychiatric unit in an urban located psychiatric hospital. A sample of 74 individuals was examined. Factors that influenced length of stay included commitment status and discharge to a different level of care. Reducing the length of stay for geriatric patients can help reduce costs and improve health outcomes.