【Introduction】
In Japan, the long-term hospitalisation of people with dementia is a significant concern. This report examines the content and challenges of support to facilitate the discharge of patients from dementia treatment wards (hereafter referred to as 'wards') to their homes.
【Methods】
A nationwide questionnaire survey of all hospital wards in Japan was conducted over a period of approximately two months (November 2022 – January 2023). The specific components of discharge support, along with associated innovations and challenges were categorised into three phases using content analysis (Berelson, 1952).
【Results】
A total of 190 wards responded to the survey (response rate: 34.3 %), with 98% of respondents being occupational therapists. Based on content analysis, the following categories were identified (extract below): 'confirming current situation' and 'planning support' at the time of admission; 'unifying support', 'implementing rehabilitation', and 'challenging home life' during hospitalisation; and 'preparing for home life' and 'follow-up after discharge' at the time of discharge. Support measures were categorised into 'respect for the individual', 'ensuring the ability to live at home', and 'transfer to the local community'. Identified challenges included 'disagreement about direction', 'financial burden', 'giving up living at home', 'inadequate organisational structure', and 'lack of support technology'.
【Conclusion】
The good practice identified in this study should be used as a reference and it was felt that support for patients to return home should be promoted to address the issues raised.