Articles tagged with Geriatrics
Researchers found that older adults with non-small cell lung cancer have low life-space mobility before treatment, which declines after starting treatment. A lower body mass index prior to treatment is associated with an improvement in life-space mobility during treatment.
A study of nearly 179,000 veterans aged 65+ found that maximizing the dosage of an existing medication can lead to better adherence and lower blood pressure. Adding a new medication shows a slim advantage in some cases, but with risks associated with polypharmacy.
A City of Hope clinical trial showed that patients over 65 experiencing significantly fewer treatment-related side effects when a multidisciplinary team analyzed each case and introduced personalized interventions. The completion of advance directives was also higher in the experimental group.
The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry publishes a special issue to strengthen the rights and voices of older people worldwide. The issue aims to reduce the burden of ageism, mentalism and ableism, which currently permeates virtually every aspect of older persons' lives.
Patients with dementia presenting with shortness of breath were less likely to be tested for pulmonary embolism compared to those without dementia. Clinical signs and risk factors, such as elevated heart rate, were also evaluated differently in patients with dementia.
A recent study found that 26-45% of people with atrial fibrillation fail to adhere to their prescribed direct-acting oral anticoagulants due to cost and bleeding concerns. Researchers interviewed 42 adults who had stopped or reduced dosing, citing these reasons as major barriers to adherence.
The RCCN brings together scientists from six NIA center programs to address aging issues, expanding discussions across disciplines and engaging leadership of NIA Centers. The network will expand workshops, pilot programs, and early career support, promoting cross-disciplinary research.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that cancer survivors, especially older individuals, are more likely to experience accelerated functional decline. Cancer survivors had lower physical performance scores, steeper declines in grip strength and gait speed compared to non-cancer survivors.
Luigi Ferrucci, MD, PhD, FGSA, has been awarded the 2021 Donald P. Kent Award by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) for his outstanding professional leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and public interpretation.
Fredrick Allan Clive Wright is the recipient of the 2021 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Geriatric Oral Research. He has made significant contributions to the knowledge of oral health in older people, general health relationships and effective geriatric oral care services.
The American Geriatrics Society has published an updated version of its Minimum Geriatrics Competencies for Graduating Medical Students. The 27 competencies integrate new concepts in the field of geriatrics and are framed around five key areas, including Mind, Mobility, Medications, Multicomplexity, and what Matters most.
A new analysis found that post-heart transplant survival among older patients is on par with younger recipients. The study included 37,135 patients and showed a significant improvement in mortality rates after adjusting for other factors, suggesting that advanced age should not be a contraindication for heart transplantation.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that heart transplant surgery has a similar mortality rate for adults aged 18-69 and 70+, with only minor differences in stroke risk and donor hearts. Advanced age alone should not prevent people from being considered as candidates for heart transplants.
The American Geriatrics Society has welcomed 15 new fellows who demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing high-quality, person-centered care for older adults. The new fellows have made significant contributions to education, clinical care, and research in the field of geriatrics.
The American Geriatrics Society has recognized 15 healthcare leaders who have made significant contributions to high-quality, person-centered care for older adults. The award recipients include clinicians, researchers, and emerging health professionals who have demonstrated excellence in their field.
Dr. Lindsay Hampson, a UCSF researcher, has received the AGS' Jeffrey H. Silverstein Memorial Award for her work on improving patient-centered decision-making for older adults with urologic conditions. Her study found that multimorbidity, frailty, and mortality risk are common among older men with stress urinary incontinence.
Dr. Megan Huisingh-Scheetz, a geriatrician and epidemiologist, received the fourth Arti Hurria Memorial Award for Emerging Investigators in Internal Medicine Who are Focused on the Care of Older Adults. Her research investigates ways to advance frailty assessment and care through technology. Dr. Huisingh-Scheetz developed a program usi...
A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that listening to calming music at bedtime can help older adults sleep better. Calming music improves sleep quality more than rhythmic music, and longer exposure (more than four weeks) is associated with greater benefits.
A new study suggests that home health care growth is 'small and inadequate' compared to the increasing demand in an aging America. Targeted policies are needed to support home-based medical care.
A longitudinal study found that adherence to the Medicare Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock Early Management Bundle (SEP-1) had variable effects on sepsis treatment and patient outcomes. Researchers suggest that clinicians may have discretion in applying SEP-1 components to focus on aspects of care driving improvements in patient outcomes.
Dr. Atai, a skilled clinician and medical administrator, has been recognized by the American Geriatrics Society for her exceptional work in teaching geriatrics trainees and providing high-quality patient care. Her empathetic listening skills and compassionate bedside manner have earned her the respect of her colleagues and patients.
Dr. Helen Fernandez will receive the 2021 Dennis W. Jahnigen Award for her commitment to building the geriatrics health workforce and improving care of older adults through innovative education programs and pathways.
Researchers explored how molecular changes in Alzheimer's patients relate to brain function, developed a new model for predicting life expectancy of older adults with multiple chronic diseases, and examined older firearm owners' perspectives on retiring their guns.
A new study by UC San Francisco found that approximately 5 million Americans, or 42% of those with mobility constraints, lacked essential devices such as grab bars and shower seats. The research emphasizes the importance of affordable and accessible assistive devices to improve quality of life for elderly individuals.
A recent analysis found a lack of consensus regarding palliative care referral in dementia patients, highlighting the need for standardized criteria. Specialist palliative care can optimize quality of life and provide relief from symptoms, but its application varies widely.
Specialized geriatric emergency care reduces hospitalizations and costs for Medicare beneficiaries, with savings ranging up to $2,905 after 30 days. The study found a significant reduction in total costs of care when patients were seen by transitional care nurses or social workers trained in geriatric emergency care.
A study analyzing data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study found that satisfaction with end-of-life care was highest when individuals died at home. Individuals who received hospice care were more likely to die at home, regardless of their cognitive health.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that food insecurity increased significantly among older US adults from 5.5% to 12.4% between 2007 and 2016. Older adults with food insecurity tend to have lower quality diets.
A study of women aged 80 found a significant association between air pollution exposure and increased depressive symptoms. Long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide or fine particulate air pollution was linked to small but notable effects on depressive symptoms.
A short training course on handheld ultrasound devices has significantly increased confidence among geriatricians in using the technology and interpreting images, with a notable increase in comfort level tripling within four hours and extending to six months.
A study found that exoskeleton vests can help nurses by reducing physical strain, but further development is needed to make them comfortable and safe. The technology has the potential to improve care work and alleviate musculoskeletal disorders.
Researchers analyzed data from 665 older adults to find trends in end-of-life symptoms. The study found that rates decreased for certain symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping and shortness of breath, while others increased or remained stable.
A recent study found that 61% of patients who used cannabis began using it after age 60, primarily for medical purposes. The most common reasons for cannabis use were pain, insomnia, and anxiety, with patients reporting relief from these issues. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of cannabis use amon...
As Denmark's population ages, hospital care will face increasing demands, with the number of days spent in hospitals approximately doubling by 2050. The study highlights the need for a healthcare workforce trained in geriatrics to address the rising demand for geriatric care.
Dr Stefania Maggi, a leading geriatrician and epidemiologist, has been awarded the ESCEO-IOF Herbert Fleisch Medal for her groundbreaking work in advancing the epidemiology of chronic conditions associated with aging. Her research focuses on healthy ageing and disease prevention programs.
An initiative promoting hospital mobility in the US yielded encouraging results, with 76% of participating sites implementing successful programs. Implementing mobility programs reduced bed or chair alarm use by 1.8-fold and increased daily walks for patients by 2-fold.
Researchers discovered that individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia experience more severe delirium and increased risk of hospitalization compared to those without ADRD. Targeted strategies can help prevent or reduce delirium severity, particularly in patients with ADRD.
Dr. Lewis A. Lipsitz outlines his vision for a healthy longevity at 84, emphasizing the need for social connections, sense of purpose, and accessible healthcare. He envisions multigenerational communities with technology-enabled support, affordable housing, and community-based health services.
This study evaluated the relationship between preoperative Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index and long-term outcomes in elderly gastric cancer patients. The results showed that the GNRI is a useful prognostic indicator for estimating overall survival, cancer-specific survival, and postoperative outcomes.
A study found that an undergraduate service-learning course using music and filmmaking helped students connect with people with dementia, share unique stories, and process new experiences. The creative approach has the potential to humanize dementia and motivate a new generation of healthcare professionals.
A recent study found that regular physical activity can help maintain or improve frailty in older adults. The research suggests that individuals who engage in low-to-moderate energy activities on a regular basis tend to be less physically, psychologically, and socially frail compared to those with lower levels of activity.
A study found that older adults who engage in light physical activity and spread it throughout the day have a lower risk of developing major mobility disability. The researchers recommend building strength and balance first, then increasing moderate-to-vigorous intensity activity, and finally adding light activity.
A recent study of 60,000 patients found that those discharged early due to space constraints had a higher risk of dying within 60 days. The study suggests that hospitals should prioritize keeping vulnerable patients longer.
The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has released a high-priority question guide for the 2020 elections, addressing eight policy issues important to older adults. The guide focuses on increasing access to geriatric health professionals, expanding Title VII training programs, and prioritizing aging research to address chronic diseases.
The AGS emphasizes equitable resource allocation in the COVID-19 era, focusing on clinical factors and avoiding arbitrary weight on age. Seven principles guide decision-making, prioritizing severe comorbidities, survival risk, and transparency.
An undergraduate course curriculum combined music, filmmaking, and reflective writing to help students connect with people living with dementia. More than half of the students continued engaging with participants after the course, highlighting the potential of arts and music courses in shaping perceptions about dementia.
A recent study found that older adults who receive potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) after hospitalization are more likely to experience harmful drug reactions, emergency department visits, rehospitalizations, and death. Nearly half of patients prescribed PIMs experienced these adverse events within 30 days of discharge.
A recent study found that advancing age is not a barrier to effective cancer treatment for older adults. The PREOP risk score tool helps guide treatment decisions by assessing factors such as nutritional status and physical condition.
The American Geriatrics Society has published a policy brief outlining recommendations for federal, state, and local governments to address COVID-19 concerns in assisted living facilities. The guidelines prioritize resource needs, patient transfers, and public health priorities, aiming to empower healthcare workers on the frontlines of...
A new study found that people aged 40-49 are at a high risk of 'pre-frailty', a precursor to frailty and increased mortality risk. The study suggests that individuals can take proactive steps to improve their health by addressing factors such as poor nutrition, mental state, lung function, and sleep quality.
The American Geriatrics Society has outlined recommendations to address COVID-19 concerns for older adults in nursing homes. The policy brief highlights the need for increased production and distribution of personal protective equipment, symptom management supplies, and end-of-life care resources.
The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society highlights critical points for combating COVID-19, including fostering awareness, managing infections, and empowering decision-makers. The 'ABCDs' provide a framework for long-term care facilities to contain the pandemic.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.