Characteristics of a rural geriatric rehabilitation service

Abstract

The aim of this article is to examine the role of two geriatric rehabilitation units in a largerural area, and compare them with published data about rehabilitation units in urbansettings. We look at the inputs to the units and the measurable outputs, including length ofstay, discharge disposition of patients and changes in patient activities of daily living. We- showthat rehabilitation services provided in the rural environment have lengths of stay andimprovements in activities of daily living that are similar to those found in urban areas.