Older adults Flashcards

1
Q

Describe some of the issues that are important for looking after older people in primary care

A
Communication issues
Multiple co-morbidities
Frailty
Side effects of medication
Polypharmacy
Social barriers
Cognitive impairment
Reluctance towards medication
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2
Q

Describe approaches to prevent falls and fractures among older people

A

Risk assessment

Treat osteoporosis

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3
Q

Risk factors for osteoporotic fractures in older age

A

Age
Female sex (esp. early menopause)
GI disease (e.g. Coeliac, Crohn’s)
Immobilization
Chronic kidney disease
Calcium deficiency (diet)
Vitamin D insufficiency (diet / sunlight / genetic)
Drugs – esp. steroids, alcohol abuse, smoking
Low BMI (≤ 19kg/m2)
Endocrine diseases – Cushings, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism
Previous fragility fracture

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4
Q

Interventions for preventing falls in older people

A

Strength and balance training (physio)
Exercise in extended care settings (physio)
Home hazard and safety intervention (OT)
Vision assessment and referral (optician)
Medication review (GP)
Treat underlying medical causes (GP)
Consider referral to specialist falls clinic (GP)

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