Researchers studied how hospitalized older adults choose post-acute care facilities, finding they often rely on limited information and make hasty decisions. Key factors in choosing a facility include proximity, prior experience, and staff quality, but these are rarely considered.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults taking five or more medications have a slower walking speed. After accounting for chronic health problems and other factors, researchers confirmed a link between polypharmacy and reduced mobility.
Research found no link between proton pump inhibitors and increased risk of dementia in people 75-years-old or older. However, frequent PPI use was associated with higher rates of depression, heart disease, and other health conditions. Regular PPI use also showed a decreased risk of cognitive decline.
A new report advances the integration of frailty research into care as we age, highlighting its importance in managing conditions like heart failure and HIV. The study aims to improve quality of life and guide healthcare decision-making for older adults.
A new study explores how spouses influence an older adult's decision to complete advance directives, revealing differences in gender and relationship characteristics. The results suggest that joint experience as a couple plays a crucial role in end-of-life planning, with some insights shedding light on individual and spousal factors
The study found that adult children are the largest group of caregivers, with many limiting social activities due to caregiving responsibilities. Few caregivers used respite care or support groups, but those caring for people with dementia and disability were more likely to use these services.
A recent study found that a significant number of older adults with delirium were not diagnosed by healthcare professionals. The researchers concluded that developing more objective screening tools could improve diagnosis accuracy. Understanding delirium is crucial to recognize and address the condition in older adults and caregivers.
Researchers studied data from nearly 4 million Medicare beneficiaries over 65 with multiple chronic conditions, comparing hospitalizations, deaths, and medical costs between those who saw PCPs and specialists. People who saw PCPs had fewer hospitalizations and lower costs.
Older adults with UTIs often don't show symptoms, but antibiotics can still cause harm. New research suggests that natural microorganisms in the body may help prevent UTIs. However, certain groups like pregnant women and those undergoing surgery may benefit from antibiotic treatment.
A recent study found that long-term bisphosphonate therapy did not significantly reduce the risk of bone fractures in older women. The research team examined data from over 5,000 women and discovered that those taking bisphosphonates for 10-13 years had higher fracture rates compared to shorter-term users.
The American Geriatrics Society has awarded Sei Lee, MD, MAS, for his groundbreaking contributions to preventive care for older adults, while Anne M. Suskind, MD, MS, received recognition for her study on the risks of minor urologic surgery in nursing home residents. Both awardees will receive support through 2033.
Research found that having excess abdominal fat is associated with a higher risk of mental decline, while weight loss or gain does not impact cognition. The study also suggests combining waist measurements with BMI may be a more accurate way to predict cognitive decline.
A new study reveals that a police training program in age-related health can improve how officers assist older adults. The program addresses issues like dementia, wandering, and elder abuse, increasing empathy, patience, and knowledge of community resources.
Researchers found that taking certain antidepressants, tranquilizers, sedatives, or antipsychotic medications significantly increased veterans' risks for developing dementia. The study also revealed that veterans who used three classes of these medicines were more likely to be diagnosed with dementia.
Dr. Resnick is a renowned nurse, researcher, and mentor recognized for her dedication to improving care for older adults. She has made significant contributions to gerontology research and education, particularly in the areas of exercise and mobility.
Dr. Sei Lee is recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to individualized care for older adults, including the development of the Lee Index mortality prediction index. He will deliver a plenary presentation on preventive care at the AGS 2017 Annual Scientific Meeting.
Dr. Maura Brennan is being honored by the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) for her dedication to education and training future leaders in geriatrics. Her work has helped bridge empathy between students and educators, inspiring interest in geriatrics across diverse professions.
Dr. Fatima Sheikh, MD, CMD, MPH, is recognized for her outstanding work in post-acute and long-term care, as well as her dedication to mentoring a diverse team. She has championed programs to manage chronic conditions and advance care planning for older adults.
The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) honored over 15 leading researchers, clinicians, and emerging health professionals for their outstanding contributions to high-quality, person-centered care for older adults. Recipients include researchers, clinicians, educators, and students who have made significant impacts in geriatrics.
The American Geriatrics Society announced Dr. Richard Allman's prestigious 2017 Henderson Lecture, focusing on leadership, research, education, and quality improvement in older adult care. Dr. Allman has extensive experience developing policy and programs for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The AGS Annual Scientific Meeting will showcase novel approaches to goals-oriented care, explore the future of Advance Care Planning, and highlight innovative dementia care models. The meeting will also feature renowned speakers, awards ceremonies, and expert discussions on policy priorities.
Studies presented at AGS17 show promising results for deprescribing benzodiazepines using tools for healthcare providers and education for older adults. A Patient-Facing Advance Care Planning website increased ACP documentation and engagement among older primary care patients.
A study highlights the importance of increased funding for geriatrics education, citing a vital need for dedicated time and financial support. The Geriatrics Academic Career Awards (GACAs) program played a crucial role in training over 41,000 health professionals since 1998.
The American Geriatrics Society and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a public information campaign to help older adults and caregivers access resources for safely navigating the open road. The campaign provides actionable safe driving tips, conversation advice, and transportation alternatives to promote mobility ...
A new collaboration aims to find trans-Atlantic common ground in geriatrics for older adults with multiple chronic conditions. The initiative emphasizes the importance of holistic care and person-centered goals.
Researchers found that older adults with heavier chronic disease burdens and shorter original hospital stays are more likely to be readmitted within a week. Hospital strategies to ensure patients are healthy enough for discharge could help prevent early readmissions.
A study published by the American Geriatrics Society found that regular exercise can help prevent or delay disabilities that impact independent living. Researchers enrolled 1,635 adults aged 70-89 and compared two groups: one exercising regularly and the other receiving health workshops.
Taking five or more medicines increases risk for harmful side effects and frailty in older adults. Research suggests reducing avoidable prescriptions can lessen risks.
The AGS extends its hip fracture co-management program with a new national initiative that positions geriatricians as co-managers with orthopedic surgeons to improve care and health outcomes. The model reduces length of stay, re-admissions, and complications, while increasing older adults' chances of going home directly from the hospital.
The American Geriatrics Society has emphasized the importance of strengthening clinical care and workforce development to support older Americans. The society outlines its vision for person-centered care, focusing on expanding healthcare options, ensuring quality in healthcare, and addressing geriatrician shortages.
A recent study found that moderate and high levels of physical activity are associated with a decreased risk of heart disease and death from all causes among older adults. Exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight, lowers blood pressure, and improves the ratio of unhealthy to healthy cholesterol in the body.
Researchers found that taking an hour-long nap after lunch significantly improved mental health outcomes in older Chinese adults. The study revealed that napping for about an hour was associated with better performance on cognitive tests compared to shorter or longer naps.
A study found that high monthly doses of vitamin D reduced acute respiratory infections in older long-term care residents by 40%. However, it also increased the number of falls experienced by these individuals. The study suggests daily dosing with high levels of vitamin D may be needed to minimize risk.
A study of 2,394 adults aged 77-101 found that poor vision worsened over time, leading to decreased physical activity and mental stimulation. The researchers suggest that preventing vision loss may also help delay physical and cognitive decline.
The American Geriatrics Society has released new guidance on care and decision-making for 'unbefriended' older adults. The recommendations aim to support vulnerable individuals while protecting others from becoming unbefriended as they age.
A recent study found that 80% of Chinese-American grandparents who cared for their grandchildren did not experience negative effects. In fact, they reported higher levels of happiness and lower symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to those who didn't care for their grandchildren.
Researchers found that palliative care treatment reduced hospital admissions and difficult transitions for older adults with serious illnesses in nursing homes. Palliative care consultations earlier in the illness also improved outcomes.
Researchers found that participating in social activities like hobby clubs and volunteer groups can delay the decline in older adults' ability to function. Women who engaged in these activities were less likely to experience a decline, while men who participated in hobby clubs maintained their ability to function.
A new CBTI treatment program using trained 'sleep coaches' significantly improved sleep quality in older adults. Participants took less time to fall asleep, woke up fewer times, and reported better overall sleep quality.
Researchers found that current testing procedures are only 77% accurate in predicting driving safety for people with dementia, highlighting the need for better tools to assess their ability to drive safely. Healthcare professionals should work closely with older adults and caregivers to determine when it's time to stop driving.
Research found that healthy lifestyle habits like exercising, eating a healthy diet, and staying socially connected can potentially compress the period of disability in older adults before death. However, factors such as smoking, being inactive, and unhealthy diets were associated with longer periods of disability.
A recent study found that personalized primary care programs can improve daily functioning in older adults, particularly those with higher levels of education. After six months, participants in the treatment groups experienced fewer problems compared to the control group, but further studies are needed to confirm these results.
A new study found that volunteering regularly over time may have benefits for older adults' memory and physical health. Volunteering reduces the risk of cognitive problems by 27%, even among those with other risk factors.
A new study reports that two-thirds of older inmates experience at least one distressing health symptom, such as chronic disease or emotional suffering. The researchers suggest the need for comprehensive programs to assess, treat, and manage geriatric conditions to help older adults while incarcerated.
The American Geriatrics Society has released a virtual journal issue featuring 20 seminal articles that have shaped geriatric research since the new millennium. The studies focus on topics such as cognition, physical disabilities, frailty, and medication use, and have had significant impacts on eldercare expertise.
A study developed a prediction score to help healthcare professionals identify older adults at risk of developing pneumonia. The seven critical factors include age, chronic lung disease, smoking, and body mass index. This scoring system may encourage preventive measures such as vaccination and quitting smoking.
Researchers found a link between poor physical performance tests and increased dementia risk in people aged 90 and older. The study suggests that testing walking and standing balance may help predict dementia risk among the 'oldest-old'.
A new study found that older adults who need help taking medications often have poor vision, hearing, or diagnosed conditions like stroke, diabetes, hypertension, heart attack, or cancer. The study also identified age and gender as predictors of medication assistance needs, with men and those aged 80+ being more likely to require help.
Researchers found that some older adults, known as 'adapters,' live longer and healthier lives despite higher disease burdens. These individuals exhibit high vigor levels and a unique coping mechanism that enables them to thrive.
Researchers found that people with probable dementia who had not been diagnosed were more likely to engage in potentially dangerous activities. Healthcare practitioners can better address safety concerns by asking older adults about their activities.