Data from: Comparing autistic and non-autistic older adults' fall-related hospitalization care and outcomes

Older adults are at high risk for fall-related hospitalizations, yet
little is known about care processes and outcomes for autistic older
adults. This study compared fall-related hospitalization outcomes between
autistic and non-autistic older adults. Using 2013–2021 Medicare inpatient
claims, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of beneficiaries aged ≥
65 hospitalized for a fall. Autistic older adults were identified using
ICD codes and matched 1:1 to non-autistic peers on demographic, clinical,
and geographic factors. Outcomes included length of stay (LOS), receipt of
inpatient occupational therapy (OT) or physical therapy (PT), discharge
destination, and all-cause 30-day readmission. Multivariable models,
stratified by age, adjusted for sociodemographic, clinical, and contextual
covariates. Sensitivity analyses controlled for dual Medicaid eligibility.
Autistic older adults had longer LOS and were less likely to receive OT
during hospitalization than matched non-autistic peers. They were less
often discharged home or to inpatient rehabilitation and were more likely
to be discharged to a skilled nursing facility. Autistic older adults also
had an 18% higher risk of 30-day readmission. Age-stratified and
sensitivity analyses yielded similar patterns. Autistic older adults
hospitalized for falls experience longer stays, lower access to
rehabilitative services, less favorable discharge destinations, and higher
readmission risk compared to non-autistic peers. These disparities
highlight the need to improve access to OT, PT, and post-acute supports
for autistic older adults and to better understand barriers to equitable
fall-related care.