Articles tagged with Geriatrics
A new study found that the fourth COVID-19 vaccine reduces the risk of death among elderly individuals in long-term care facilities by 72%. The study, which included approximately 40,000 residents, also showed a significant reduction in hospitalizations and infections.
A study of 231 Vietnam Era veterans reveals that 71% describe at least one traumatic event, including combat exposure, adverse childhood experiences, and navigating a life-threatening illness. The findings underscore the importance of clinician-patient relationships and trauma-informed care in older adult healthcare.
A new UCLA study found that fixed vial sizes for the controversial Alzheimer's drug aducanumab could result in significant wasteful spending of up to $605 million per year on Medicare. The researchers suggest reducing vial sizes to contain costs and improve the value of future Medicare spending.
A recent study of 7,073 adults found that those with glaucoma had higher cognitive function scores but steeper declines over 18 years. The association was small and unlikely to be clinically meaningful.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that Synapsology, a game-like dual-task exercise, helps maintain or improve cognitive and physical abilities in older adults aged 85-97. The study, published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, suggests that this cost-effective intervention can have a societal impact.
A study from the University of Tsukuba found that home oxygen therapy, care level need 4-5, and cancer are key predictors of frequent emergency house calls among elderly patients. This prediction can help allocate medical resources effectively.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that higher levels of optimism are associated with longer lifespans and a greater likelihood of living past 90 years of age. Lifestyle factors accounted for nearly one-quarter of the optimism-lifespan association across racial and ethnic groups.
A straightforward questionnaire, called the Attentional Failure during Driving Questionnaire (AFDQ), has been developed to assess older drivers' ability to drive safely. The study found that repeated attentional challenges were a key predictor of crashes among older drivers.
Researchers at FAU's Schmidt College of Medicine are conducting a two-year study to investigate emergency department-based prevention strategies for high-risk older patients. The project aims to identify effective fall prevention strategies that target limited resources to improve patient outcomes, safety, and reduce healthcare costs.
A new study published in Blood Advances found that virtual frailty assessments are both safe and feasible when conducted virtually. The study evaluated 185 patients with blood cancers who completed a virtual assessment, finding that 81.1% successfully completed the test without falls or safety events.
Researchers found that polypharmacy and sedative drugs are associated with an increased risk of long-term care needs certification among older adults. The study highlights the need for public health initiatives to reduce high-risk prescribing practices, which may lead to a decrease in disability risk.
A 12-month home-based progressive and supervised exercise program improves physical performance, handgrip strength, and activity of daily living in patients after hip fracture surgery. The study shows that investing in rehabilitation exercise benefits individuals and society.
A new national poll reveals that most people over 50 feel their health is as good or better than before 2020, but a sizable minority say their health has declined. Key findings highlight the importance of social connections, hobbies, and getting outdoors in helping older adults age well.
Researchers aim to develop an audio health library to enhance communication during triadic visits. The study will analyze primary care visits and conduct user-design sessions to refine the system.
A recent study found that 70% of adults with stage 3 or 4 cancer were at risk of drug-drug interactions, highlighting the importance of deprescribing medications to avoid harm. The study's results emphasize the need for education and problem-solving to address polypharmacy in older adults with cancer.
A new study reveals massive variations in hospice medication prescriptions, with treatment agency being the primary factor. Patients in agencies with high prescription rates were up to 50 times more likely to receive benzodiazepines or antipsychotics.
A new study found that states with less rigorous regulations have lower rates of residents dying at home or with hospice care. Dual Medicare-Medicaid status is also linked to worse access to high-quality end-of-life care.
Researchers have developed a multi-dimensional approach to quantify cognitive decline in aging dogs, which may also inform human Alzheimer's disease treatment. The method combines physical exams, lab tests, and cognitive assessments to provide a more complete picture of canine cognitive function.
A study found that nearly half of all nursing staff made medication-related errors within the last year when administering medications to patients. Nurses who had attended medication training within the last 2 years were less likely to make these errors.
Researchers presented studies on reducing medication errors, improving hospital mobility, and predicting mortality risk in older adults with dementia. The EQUiPPED study showed a significant decrease in potentially inappropriate medication prescribing, while the Comparative Effectiveness study found improvements in delirium scores and ...
The American Geriatrics Society honored over 20 leaders in various disciplines with prestigious awards at the #AGS22 Annual Scientific Meeting. These leaders champion person-centered care for older adults through research, education, and clinical practice.
The UK National Osteoporosis Guideline Group has published a new guideline for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, which includes updated recommendations for vertebral fracture detection and anabolic treatment options. The guidance aims to improve service provision in both primary and secondary care settings.
Dr. Jerry C. Johnson, MD, AGSF, is honored with the prestigious Nascher/Manning Award for his groundbreaking work in geriatrics. He has made significant contributions to improving care for older adults through teaching, mentorship, and innovative research programs.
A recent randomized controlled trial found that an online decision aid can help older adults decide whether and when to stop driving. The tool, called Healthwise DDA, had high acceptability and reduced negative feelings about the process among participants. It may help older adults make informed decisions about their driving abilities.
Dr. Lauren Southerland will receive the award for her pioneering multidisciplinary geriatric models of care for older adults with emergency healthcare needs. Her research focuses on quality improvement, implementation science, and incorporating geriatric care into ED care.
Dr. Anil N. Makam, Assistant Professor of Medicine at UCSF, received the fifth Arti Hurria Memorial Award for Emerging Investigators in Internal Medicine Who are Focused on the Care of Older Adults. His research focuses on long-term acute care hospitals and evidence-based medicine.
Dr. Kao, a renowned geriatrician, has created programs to serve older adults with advanced illnesses, tripling the capacity of UCSF's house calls program. She promotes diversity in geriatrics through her advocacy work and is an AGS member since 2007.
A new poll by the National Poll on Healthy Aging finds that many older adults are not prepared for aging in place, despite wanting to live independently. The poll highlights the importance of planning for home modifications and social support, particularly for those without family members to care for them.
Dr. Mitchell T. Heflin, MD, MHS, is honored with the 2022 Dennis W. Jahnigen Award for his extensive contributions to geriatrics education and healthcare provider training. His work focuses on developing innovative models of care and improving interprofessional collaboration.
The American Geriatrics Society honors Dr. Sharon Brangman's research on Alzheimer's disease, hospice, palliative medicine, depression, and end-of-life care. She will deliver the Henderson State-of-the-Art Lecture at #AGS22, focusing on diversity in study populations and community engagement.
Dr. Kelley's work focuses on improving care quality for older adults with serious illness, promoting patient-centered healthcare services and policies. She has introduced innovations to account for costs, considering out-of-pocket expenses and family caregiver labor.
Researchers at UCLA found that premenopausal women with low levels of anti-Mullerian hormone are at a higher risk of experiencing significant bone loss within two to three years. The study suggests that measuring AMH levels could help physicians identify women at risk and provide targeted treatment.
A new study reveals that nearly half of all older adults now die with a dementia diagnosis listed on their medical record, a 36% increase from two decades ago. This rise may be attributed to better public awareness, more detailed medical records, and Medicare billing practices, rather than an actual increase in the condition.
A study published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that antidepressants were associated with a lower risk of suicide among residents aged 75+, who had a significantly increased risk if taking sleep medication or having a history of self-harm. The research highlights the need for early recognition and quality care ...
Dr Nicholas Fuggle, a UK researcher, has been awarded the prestigious ESCEO-IOF Pierre Meunier Young Scientist Award for his significant contributions to research in musculoskeletal ageing. He is recognized for his work on determinants of musculoskeletal ageing and digital healthcare.
Professor Elaine Dennison has been awarded the IOF Olof Johnell Science Award for her significant work in musculoskeletal aging, osteoporosis, and metabolic bone diseases. She is recognized as an internationally renowned clinician, researcher, and educator.
Professor Antonio Cherubini has made significant contributions to the field of geriatric medicine and musculoskeletal diseases. He is recognized for his work on aging, bone health, and age-related diseases.
A study found that many nursing home residents continue to receive insulin and other medications despite blood test results suggesting tight control. Only 27% of overtreated and 19% of potentially overtreated residents had their medications adjusted within 2 weeks.
A new study from Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University found that only 20% of severe stroke patients received palliative care consultations. The study suggests that these consultations can help families and patients determine an acceptable outcome and guide treatment decisions to reduce prolonged suffering.
Researchers at the Salk Institute successfully reversed aging signs in middle-aged and elderly mice using a cellular rejuvenation approach. The treatment, which involves reprogramming cells with four specific molecules, restored youthful epigenetic patterns and improved tissue function without increasing cancer risk.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults who underwent non-elective surgery had more disabilities in daily activities after surgery. Factors associated with increased disability burden included age, sex, ethnicity, neighborhood disadvantage, multimorbidity, frailty, and health conditions.
The US falls short in 'geriatricizing' emergency departments, with most institutions lacking resources and support to implement the Geriatric Emergency Department (GED) Guidelines. Delirium, falls, and polypharmacy are common issues that require more attention from care teams.
Researchers discovered a crucial RNA strand called CYTOR that helps build muscle mass, and found it decreases with age. Gene therapy stimulated CYTOR production, leading to increased fast-twitch muscle fibers and improved muscle function in humans and mice.
Seventy- to eighty-year-olds who train for better fitness demonstrate better problem-solving skills and reduced cognitive decline. Regular physical activity is linked to increased brain health, including faster reaction times and improved working memory.
A new poll found that less than half of people aged 50-80 have ever used a health-related app, with those in poor health and lower incomes being even less likely. Only 28% of current users share information with healthcare providers, highlighting the potential for apps to support health behaviors and improve outcomes.
A study of over 27,400 Women's Health Initiative participants found that loneliness increased among women aged 70+ during the pandemic, leading to worsening mental health. The 'silent epidemic' also showed a decline in social connections and increased isolation among women of color.
A recent study found that using personal assistant applications on smartphones can significantly improve memory in older adults with dementia. The researchers trained participants to use the technology to receive reminders about daily events and activities, resulting in improved memory performance.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that women score higher on compassion-related items and self-reflection, whereas men score higher on cognitive-related items and emotional regulation. Both genders demonstrated an association with increased mental well-being and resilience.
A new study reveals that social isolation and loneliness can increase cardiovascular disease risk by 8% and 5% respectively. Women who experience high levels of both social isolation and loneliness have a 13-27% increased risk of heart disease, compared to those with low levels.
A new study found that staff assumptions about minoritized groups contribute to variability in nursing home care for residents with advanced dementia. Remedies include addressing staff biases, increasing funding, and standardizing advance-care planning.
A new study reveals significant variability in state- and nationwide policies on end-of-life decision making in US prisons. The researchers found that many policies restrict access to advance care planning documents, limit the roles of surrogate decision-makers, and fail to ensure compliance with community standards. The study emphasiz...
A successful intervention combining education and workflow increased primary care screenings for geriatric conditions, improving attitudes towards older adults. The program leveraged teamwork to integrate these important screenings into care delivery, resulting in significantly higher screening rates.
A unique Irish study found that previous COVID-19 infection and age are associated with lower antibody levels six months after vaccination. The research highlights the importance of boosting vaccinations for vulnerable populations like nursing home residents.
A new study found a 1,886% increase in opioid-related overdose deaths among U.S. adults aged 55 and older between 1999 and 2019. Contributing factors include ageism, social isolation, depression, and declining cognitive function.
A study published in Age and Ageing found that annual rates of hospital transfers decrease with age, but younger residents are more likely to require dialysis or tube feeding. In contrast, older residents are more likely to have cognitive decline, dementia, and diabetes.
Researchers found that slowness of gait alone can predict loss of capacity to perform basic and instrumental activities of daily living (BADL and IADL) in older adults. The study analyzed data from over 3,000 people aged 60 and over, concluding that measuring gait speed is sufficient for efficient prediction of functional disability.
A large-scale new study found that frailty was a strong risk factor for dementia, even among people at high genetic risk, and that it can be modified through a healthy lifestyle. Over 10 years, dementia was detected in 1,762 participants, with those who were frail before diagnosis having a much higher risk.
A new poll of people over 50 finds most are finding joy and staying resilient amid the pandemic, but a sizable minority feel significant stress, particularly about COVID-19 risk. The poll highlights the importance of focusing on those in poor health and finding safe ways to enjoy favorite activities.
Researchers found that urinary incontinence can distract from balance and stability, increasing the risk of falling in older adults. The study showed that the feeling of having to pee acts as a distracting factor, leading to changes in gait patterns similar to those caused by other distracting tasks.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine developed a shortened 7-item version of the SD-WISE-28 to assess wisdom. The Jeste-Thomas Wisdom Index has high validity and positive correlations with resilience, happiness, and mental well-being.