The Risks of Hospital Stays: A guide to safe recovery and returning home for older adults

Mayo Clinic Aging Forward · Jul 24, 2025 · 38m

Every year there are about 13.2 million hospitalizations for adults 65 years and older in the United States. Hospitalizations save lives, but there are many things that occur during the stay — and other hidden risks that can impact outcomes — especially for the older adult.

On this episode of Aging Forward, hospitalist Dr. Allyson Palmer breaks down the hidden dangers of staying in the hospital, the importance of maintaining mobility while hospitalized, and what loved ones and caregivers can do.

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