Key message

The Norwegian Knowledge Centre for the Health Services was commissioned by project managers in Hamar and Gjøvik municipalities to do a systematic search for literature assessing the effect of preventive home visits to the elderly.

Methods

The researchers carried out a systematic search of databases March 13th 2013 using search terms for ”elderly” combined with search terms for ”home visits” and a filter limiting the search to systematic reviews based on randomised controlled trials. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts and retrieved those that matched the inclusion criteria.

Results

• Seven systematic reviews were included from a total of 1152 references.
• The systematic reviews included individuals aged 65 years and older, some included frail elderly while others only included those with a lower mortality risk.
• The preventing home visits were voluntary, and was provided by health- or social workers. The visits had a multidimensional focus and included advice to prevent problems or reduce risks in relation to growing old. There was variation in relation to content, provider, duration and frequency.
• The following outcomes were reported:

             - self-rated health

             - quality of life

             - activity and participation

             - admission to an institution

             - physical- and psychosocial function

             - use of health- and social resources and costs