Elderly Care Post Workshop

Question 1

First line treatment for low-moderate severity A.D is 5mg Donepezil od, when should it be given and why?

Answer 1

At night as it can cause drowsiness at the beginning.

Question 2

Too much Levothyroxine can cause symptoms which can be mistaken for what?

Answer 2

Angina.

Question 3

What is the target BP in elderly?

Answer 3

150/90mmhg

Question 4

Oxybutin is typically used for what?

Answer 4

BPH

Question 5

What has Oxybutinin associated with?

Answer 5

Increased risk of dementia.

Question 6

Why would we advise against use of tamsulosin in the elderly?

Answer 6

It can cause an increased risk of falls due to being an alpha blocker.

Finasteride would be better for BPH.

Question 7

How do we assess anxiety?

Answer 7

GAD

Question 8

How do we assess depression?

Answer 8

PHQ2 or 9.

Question 9

What dose should Dalteparin be given as in elderly patients who are frail?

Answer 9

May need to half the normal dose to 2500 units s/c depending on their weight.

Question 10

Why would we want to stop BZS in an elderly patient with a history of falls?

Answer 10

They increase risk of falls. Can cause withdrawals so have to be tapered down over a period of weeks/months.
This can happen faster in hospital setting.