1. Introduction. The process of discharging patients from acute hospitals is characterised by a range of patient circumstances and needs. Discharge planning for older patients is particularly challenging (Bauer et al., 2009; Mitchell, Gilmour, & Mclaren, 2010; Victor, Healy, Thomas, & Seargeant, 2000), as these patients often have a broad range of needs relating to their health and any care ....