Articles tagged with Geriatrics
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.