Abstract
Mobilization of older patients in hospitals is a clinical care priority that can reduce functional decline, delirium and length of stay. The Mobilization of Vulnerable Elders in Ontario (MOVE ON) initiative promoted 3 core messages: Mobilization should occur at least 3 times daily, mobilization should be progressive and scaled, assessment should take place within 24 hours of admission. Coordinated centrally, MOVE ON included 14,540 patients in 14 hospitals, mean age 79.9 years. In interrupted time series analysis, 10.56% more patients mobilized compared to pre-intervention. Using mixed methods, including 212 staff surveys, we identified success factors for spread and sustainability. Success factors for sustainability included contextualized education, cultural shift, implementation of formal procedures (policies, role revision, and documentation), visible corporate support, collaborative resource sharing and alignment with system priorities. The spread of MOVE ON continues, being adapted in over 40 hospitals in Ontario, and to other provinces and countries.