Geriatric patient functional status

The prevalence of obesity in older adults is increasing therefore, it should not be surprising that more cardiovascular risk factors are present in this group of individuals. Additionally, obesity is a major predictor of functional limitation and mobility problems in older persons. Age alone should not prejudice the clinician from treating geriatric patients, whereas the benefits of cardiovascular health and functionality should be considered. Treatments should be initiated that minimize adverse effects on bone health and nutritional status and should include dietary and activity modifications.6... 

Korevaar JC, van Munster BC, de Rooij SE (2005) Risk factors for delirium in acutely admitted elderly patients a prospective cohort study. BMC Geriatr 5 6 Kudoh A, Takase H, Takahira Y et al. (2004) Postoperative confusion increases in elderly longterm benzodiazepine users. Anesth Analg 99 (6) 1674-1678 McCusker J, Cole M, Dendukuri N et al. (2001) Delirium in older medical inpatients and subsequent cognitive and functional status a prospective study. Cmaj 165 (5) 575-583 McCusker J, Cole M, Dendukuri N et al. (2003) The course of delirium in older medical inpatients a prospective study. J Gen Intern Med 18 (9) 696-704 McShane R, Areosa Sastre A, Minakaran N (2006) Memantine for dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 19 (2) CD003154... 

Home care in elderly patients can help with the geriatric assessment of disability and functional status and the prevention of complications related or not related to drugs. Stuck et al. conducted a three-year, randomized, controlled trial of the effect of annual in-home comprehensive geriatric assessment and follow-up for people who were 75 years of age or older.The results showed that this intervention can delay the development of disability and can reduce permanent nursing home stays among elderly people living at home. 

Geriatric Considerations - Summary Fluid retention may lead to mild CHF in patients with CAD and unrecognized or compensated heart failure. Discontinue drug with any sign of decline in cardiac function. Avoid in older adults with NYHA Class 111 or IV cardiac status. Demonstrated effectiveness in patients 65 years of age and older. 

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