Common Medical Conditions in Home-Based Medical Care

In this chapter, we will discuss four common medical problems in homebound older adults: unintentional weight loss, urinary incontinence, polypharmacy, and sleep disturbance. All are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and decreased function and independence. The risk factors and etiologies for these problems are often more diverse and complex in homebound older adults than in younger patients, with socioeconomic and psychiatric factors often playing an important role. Evaluation of these problems should focus on prevention and investigation of reversible causes. While some pharmacological treatment options exist, the optimal management of these problems requires a multidisciplinary approach and should always reflect the patient’s preferences and goals of care.