Background

Hospital readmissions among elderly patients represent a major challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Frequent readmissions are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, healthcare expenditure, and reduced quality of life. Identifying clinical predictors of hospital readmission can support targeted interventions and improve patient outcomes.

Objective

To identify significant clinical predictors associated with 30-day hospital readmission among elderly patients and evaluate their impact on healthcare utilization.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 720 elderly patients aged 65 years and above admitted to three tertiary care hospitals between January 2023 and December 2024. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and hospitalization data were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of readmission.

Results

Among 720 participants, 186 (25.8%) experienced hospital readmission within 30 days of discharge. Significant predictors included polypharmacy (OR=2.4, p<0.001), heart failure (OR=2.1, p=0.002), chronic kidney disease (OR=1.9, p=0.01), diabetes mellitus (OR=1.7, p=0.03), prolonged hospital stay (OR=2.6, p<0.001), and previous hospitalization history (OR=3.1, p<0.001). Readmitted patients demonstrated significantly higher mortality and healthcare utilization rates.

Conclusion

Multiple clinical and healthcare-related factors contribute to hospital readmission among elderly patients. Early identification of high-risk individuals may facilitate preventive interventions and reduce avoidable readmissions.