Articles tagged with Geriatrics
A study of over 2,800 Americans aged 50+ found that lonely individuals experience more burdensome symptoms at the end of life and receive more intense care. They are also more likely to die in nursing homes and use life support.
A study of older adults found that many experience new disabilities after hospitalization for serious illnesses, affecting daily tasks and healthcare access. The study revealed that recovery from disability is often incomplete six months after discharge, highlighting the need for improved support systems for older adults.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons has identified four geriatric-specific characteristics that increase the risk of elderly surgical patients experiencing an unplanned hospital readmission within a month of discharge. These characteristics include cognitive impairment, use of a mobility aid, risk o...
A new study found that frail older adults who undergo emergency abdominal surgery have a higher risk of complications, longer hospital stays, and increased mortality rates. They also experience more frequent hospital readmissions after discharge.
Antipsychotic medications may increase death or cardiopulmonary arrest risk in older hospital patients, particularly those taking first-generation antipsychotics. The study highlights the need for cautious use of these medications to treat delirium and protect patients.
A study found that intensive blood pressure control in people aged 80 and older reduces the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and mild cognitive impairment, but increases the risk of declines in kidney function. Benefits were highest in those with higher cognitive performance.
Geriatric conditions like frailty and cognitive impairments can worsen in cardiac intensive care units, even with excellent heart care. Early mobilization and addressing polypharmacy may improve patient outcomes.
Experts at the American Geriatrics Society conference emphasize the importance of addressing bone and muscle health to prevent falls, fractures, and muscle loss in older adults. The conference aims to bridge knowledge gaps by exploring age-related aspects of osteoporosis and soft-tissue disorders.
Alzheimer's disease incidence in the US has been declining since 2007, according to a recent analysis. The study found significant geographic variation in incidence rates across the country, with highest rates in the Midwest and South.
Research suggests that aerobic exercise and a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH diet, can improve cognitive functioning in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Combining exercise with the DASH diet showed promise in improving thinking, memory, and decision-making abilities.
A survey of geriatricians, general internists, and cardiologists found that over 80% had recently considered deprescribing a cardiovascular medication due to adverse drug reactions. Barriers to deprescribing include concerns about patient reluctance and interfering with other physicians' treatment plans.
Oral health risks for older adults include increased incidence of tooth decay, gum disease, and complete loss of teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene, using fluoride treatments, and getting regular dental care can help prevent these complications.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that interferon-free direct-acting antivirals are effective in treating hepatitis C in older adults, with high cure rates reported despite comorbid conditions. The treatment offers similar effectiveness as it does in younger patients.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that 59.3% of individuals had depression in the last month before death. Depression symptoms escalated gradually from 4 to 1 months before death, with certain groups experiencing higher rates, such as women and younger adults.
A study found that home health care significantly lowers the risk of hospital re-admission within 30 days among older adults with heart failure. The researchers analyzed records of over 67,000 Medicare patients and discovered that those receiving home health care had lower readmission rates than those without
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that low levels of physical activity are associated with higher risks of mortality among Brazilian older adults. The research suggests that regular physical activity can help reduce deaths from heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
The ACS NSQIP Surgical Risk Calculator can predict four specific quality-of-life outcomes for older patients: pressure ulcer, delirium, new mobility aid use, and functional decline. The calculator's precision and accuracy in predicting these outcomes will help surgeons counsel older adults about the likelihood of developing these issues.
The collaboration aims to develop and implement protocols, resources, and specialized care areas for geriatric emergency care in rural hospitals. The project will evaluate the effectiveness of telemedicine in extending the reach of a geriatric emergency department to rural facilities.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that adapting the Hospital Elder Life Program for non-volunteers and family members can effectively prevent post-operative delirium. The tailored intervention reduced delirium occurrence by 19.4% compared to usual care, with greater functional and cognitive recovery afterwards.
Research from the EPOSA study found that people with osteoarthritis are at higher risk of social isolation due to joint pain and limited mobility. Regular physical activity and social engagement can help alleviate this risk, suggesting potential benefits for healthcare providers in referring patients to senior centers.
The Clin-STAR Coordinating Center, led by AFAR, will promote and enrich the career development of clinician-investigators across specialties and disciplines. The center aims to improve care for older adults through a multi-faceted national platform, leveraging the expertise of four principal investigators from Johns Hopkins, UCSF, Yale...
The American Geriatrics Society advocates for an end to gender-based discrimination in the workforce and care, recognizing its negative impact on public health. The organization's position statement outlines four recommendations to address bias and promote diverse perspectives.
Megan Young, MD, assistant dean and geriatrics professor at Boston University School of Medicine, received the 2019 Women Physicians Section Inspiration Award. She is known for her infectious enthusiasm, thoughtful approach to teaching, and dedication to mentoring students.
The UNT Health Science Center has been awarded a $3.75 million federal grant to expand its WE HAIL geriatric training program, which aims to prepare healthcare professionals to treat older adults with unique and complex needs. The program, already recognized for its success in serving older Texans, will now be expanded to include addit...
Researchers say increasing evidence suggests age-related diseases, rather than age itself, may be the key cause of cognitive decline. This shift in thinking highlights the importance of addressing bodily changes that lead to diseases like dementia.
Geriatric patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction who undergo primary percutaneous coronary intervention have higher in-hospital mortality rates if they have a high mean platelet volume. This is also associated with higher Gensini scores, creatinine concentrations, and lower HDL cholesterol levels.
A team of researchers and national leaders emphasize the importance of including artificial nutrition preferences on POLST forms. They argue that these orders facilitate discussions about life-sustaining treatments, ensuring patients' wishes are respected at the end of life.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults who engage in regular physical activity and mental stimulation before surgery have a lower risk of developing postoperative delirium. Participants who were physically active six to seven days a week had a 73% lower chance of experiencing deliriu...
The University of North Carolina Health Care has received a five-year, $3.75 million grant to provide geriatrics training throughout North Carolina. The program aims to improve health outcomes for older adults by increasing rates of advance care planning and reducing chronic opioid use.
A study found that medications used to treat atrial fibrillation, such as amiodarone, can significantly increase the risk of falls and fainting in older adults. The risk is highest within the first two weeks of treatment, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making for quality patient care.
Research suggests that intensive high blood pressure treatment in nursing home residents with dementia does not provide significant benefits, and may even lead to increased hospitalization rates. The study's findings recommend reducing medication doses or discontinuing use in residents with dementia, aligning with their goals of care.
Researchers identified four characteristics - fall history, malnutrition, delirium, or decubitus ulcer - as predictors of extended stay in a care facility. These findings empower physicians to counsel patients on possible post-operative impacts and guide hospital quality improvement initiatives to address these factors.
The LSU School of Social Work has been awarded a $3.73 million grant to improve the quality of life for Louisiana residents and families living with Alzheimer's disease. The program, LA-GWEP, will train social workers, nurses, and physicians in dementia-friendly integrated practice.
Research suggests that older adults who experience cognitive impairment, dementia, or delirium after a hip fracture are more likely to experience functional decline and disability. Despite this, some older adults can recover and regain mobility after surgery.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that poorer overall diet quality was associated with a higher incidence of frailty in older adults. Improving diet quality may help lower the risk of frailty, with good-quality diets shown to have a significantly lower risk compared to poor- and medium-quality diets.
A home-based exercise program improved anxiety, mood, and social and emotional well-being in older patients with cancer who received chemotherapy. The program, which included low- to moderate-intensity aerobic and resistance exercises, showed positive results for those starting with worse anxiety and mood disturbances.
A study by West Health Institute and Meals on Wheels America found that meal delivery drivers can act as an early warning system for seniors' health and safety issues. The program, which uses a mobile app to submit alerts, led to referrals for self-care, health, and care management services for 132 clients.
NEOMED will implement an experiential training program using Project ECHO, improving primary care providers' knowledge of the geriatric population. The project aims to address social determinants of health and increase access to resources for older adults.
Shunsuke Minakuchi, a Tokyo Medical & Dental University Professor, received the 2019 IADR Award for his research on geriatric oral health. He has published over 115 papers and was previously honored with the Neal Garrett Clinical Research Prize.
A systematic review found that serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) led to more harmful events compared to placebos in older adults. Antidepressants like SSRIs may increase the risk of falls, highlighting the need for careful consideration when prescribing these medications.
Researchers developed a tool to predict postoperative delirium severity, enabling better care for patients recovering from surgery. The study used data from 100 adults undergoing non-cardiac, non-neurological surgery, combining two previous tools to assess delirium intensity.
Researchers developed an innovative curricular approach to educate undergraduate nursing students in geriatric care, using interactive learning assignments to increase understanding, confidence, and competence. The program was well-received by students and provided them with multiple learning activities to master geriatric content.
Researchers discovered that poor sleep quality is a significant contributor to peptic ulcer relapse in older adults. Participants with improved sleep demonstrated lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, and excessive alcohol consumption compared to those with recurrent ulcers.
Regenstrief researchers present findings on deprescribing medications in older adults, preventing hospitalizations through OPTIMISTIC project lessons learned. Advance care planning initiatives aim to improve nursing home care for dementia patients.
Dr. Nicole Brandt will receive the 2019 Dennis W. Jahnigen Award for her dedication to training health professionals in care for older adults. She has developed a geriatrics and palliative care pathway, an accredited geriatrics residency, and secured funding for innovative programs supporting older adults.
Dr. Kellie Flood, an Associate Professor at UAB, is recognized for her outstanding geriatric care, research, and leadership. She has expanded geriatrics expertise in Alabama and beyond through various programs, including the UAB Geriatric Scholar Program.
Courtney Balentine, MD, MPH, and Candace Yvonne Parker-Autry, MD, will receive the Jeffrey H. Silverstein Memorial Award for Emerging Investigators in Surgical and Related Medical Specialties. Their research focuses on improving care for older adults through innovative approaches, such as Virtual Acute Care for Elders (ACE) and phenoty...
The American Geriatrics Society recognizes Dr. Arti Hurria's tireless advocacy for older adults with cancer, improving geriatrics competence among physicians and health professionals. Her legacy continues to benefit her colleagues and patients through interprofessional collaboration and person-centered care.
The American Geriatrics Society honored more than 20 leaders representing various disciplines at its 2019 annual scientific meeting. The award recipients include researchers, clinicians, educators, and emerging health professionals who have made outstanding contributions to high-quality care for older adults.
A recent study found that older adults with blood cancers who struggled with daily activities had a higher risk of death, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits. Researchers suggest screening for age-related conditions to improve function and tolerance for cancer treatment.
A standardized clinical pathway has reduced delirium and hospital readmission rates among frail elderly trauma patients. The pathway implements geriatric-focused care, including early ambulation, bowel and pain regimens, and nutrition, to improve outcomes.
The American Geriatrics Society and Aquifer launch an innovative online curriculum to train healthcare providers in geriatrics. The curriculum provides evidence-based content and flexible learning options, aiming to address the shortage of geriatricians and improve patient care.
Researchers created a special food for elderly patients with swallowing difficulties, improving nutritional state and health indicators in just 10 days. The food is rich in unsaturated fat, vitamins, and minerals, making it easily consumable for those with swallowing issues.
A recent study found that caregivers of older patients with advanced cancer are a vulnerable group, experiencing poorer physical and mental health. Strategies such as talking to healthcare providers about stress related to caregiving can help improve caregiver well-being.
Researchers found that acetaminophen use was associated with a slightly higher risk of stroke in people with diabetes. In contrast, the medication did not increase the risk of heart attacks or overall deaths. The study suggests that older adults with diabetes should exercise caution when taking acetaminophen.
Dr. Lauren Ferrante's research identifies promising markers of poor functional recovery in ICU survivors, which could help target older adults for interventions to improve function after ICU care. Her work aims to aid recovery, prevent disability, and reduce deaths following serious hospitalization.
Dr. Amy Kind will deliver a marquee presentation at #AGS19 on the social determinants of health, reorienting research, policy, and clinical practice to broader systemic factors. Her work focuses on improving health equity and has led to the development of the 'Neighborhood Atlas,' a neighborhood map assessing socioeconomic factors.
Research highlights chronic opioid use among older adults undergoing spinal surgery for degenerative spine disease, and intensified hypertension treatment at hospital discharge poses a risk without benefits. A practical two-stage frailty assessment also predicts poor outcomes after aortic valve replacement.
Dr. Laura Mosqueda will discuss state-of-the-art approaches to elder abuse identification, treatment, and prevention at the AGS Annual Scientific Meeting. Her talk highlights geriatrics' role in addressing mistreatment of older adults and promoting strong social supports.
Researchers found that using a CPAP machine consistently improved cognitive function for people with MCI, while inconsistent use accelerated decline. The study suggests that consistent CPAP adherence may be an effective strategy to slow memory loss in older adults.