Home Visits for Prevention of Impairment and Death in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Home visits by health and social care professionals aim to prevent cognitive and functional impairment, thus reducing institutionalisation and prolonging life. Visitors may provide health information, investigate untreated or sub-optimally treated problems, encourage compliance with medical care, and provide referrals to services. Previous reviews have reached varying conclusions about their effectiveness. This review sought to assess the effectiveness of preventive home visits for older adults (65+ years) and to identify factors that may moderate effects.