Germany advances geriatric care through digital innovation and studies

Developments in the German healthcare sector are focusing on improving geriatric aftercare and digital integration. The “eliPfad” study, conducted across six specialized centers in North Rhine-Westphalia, is examining how to support nearly 1,000 elderly patients following hospital discharge. This model project, funded by the Joint Federal Committee (G-BA) Innovation Fund, aims to promote patient independence by combining intensive personal care with digital tools to prevent gaps in the transition from clinical to home environments. Final results are expected by mid-2027.

In parallel, the GKV-Spitzenverband has emphasized the need for digital transformation in nursing. In a position paper titled “More digitalization for future-proof care,” the association called for advancements such as telecare and the full integration of nursing information into electronic patient records (ePA) to address demographic changes and labor shortages.