Research Progress on Continuity of Care for Disabled Elderly Individuals from the Perspective of Integrated Medical and Elder Care: A Review

Abstract

This study systematically reviews research concerning continuity of care for disabled elderly individuals within the framework of integrated medical and elder care. The objective is to clarify conceptual connotations, practice models, influencing factors, and outcome evaluations, thereby providing a reference for service optimization. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases such as CNKI and Web of Science, with 25 core publications selected for integrated analysis. Current research defines the core connotations of continuity of care through multiple dimensions, resulting in various practical models including institution-to-institution transitions, institution-community-family linkages, and integrated care. The implementation of continuity of care is influenced by multi-level factors such as policy frameworks, organizational management, service providers, and patient families. Evidence suggests that these models yield positive effects in improving clinical outcomes and enhancing the quality of care. However, existing studies exhibit limitations in intervention design, standardized evaluation criteria, and focus on rural areas. Future research should prioritize the construction of localized theoretical frameworks, high-quality intervention studies, and the empowerment of information technology to facilitate the perfection of continuity of care systems for the disabled elderly.