Emergency & Acute Care Medicine

Geriatric Emergencies

Geriatric emergencies refer to medical situations that require immediate attention in elderly individuals (usually aged 65 and older) due to their unique physiological, psychological, and social characteristics. The aging process can make older adults more vulnerable to certain medical conditions and complications. Here are some common geriatric emergencies:

• Falls and Fractures: Older adults are at a higher risk of falls due to decreased muscle strength, balance issues, and vision problems. Falls can lead to fractures, particularly hip fractures, which can be very serious and require urgent medical intervention.
   
• Cardiovascular Events: Elderly individuals are at an increased risk of heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) and strokes due to age-related changes in blood vessels and the heart. Quick recognition and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome.
   
• Respiratory Distress: Conditions like pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and congestive heart failure can cause respiratory distress in older adults. Prompt treatment is important to prevent respiratory failure.
   
• Infections: Infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs), sepsis, and pneumonia can be more severe in older adults due to weakened immune systems. Rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential.
   
• Altered Mental Status: Delirium and other forms of altered mental status can be caused by infections, medications, electrolyte imbalances, and other medical issues. Identifying the underlying cause and managing it promptly is crucial.
   
• Dehydration and Malnutrition: Older adults are at higher risk of dehydration and malnutrition due to reduced thirst sensation, decreased appetite, and other factors. Severe dehydration or malnutrition can lead to medical emergencies.
   
• Medication-related Issues: Polypharmacy (taking multiple medications) is common among older adults and can lead to adverse drug reactions, interactions, and overdose. Careful monitoring of medications is essential to avoid emergencies.
   
• Trauma: Older adults may experience trauma from accidents, burns, or other incidents. Due to age-related changes in skin and other tissues, they might be more susceptible to serious complications from injuries.
   
• Acute Pain: Older adults might have difficulty communicating their pain or might be undertreated for pain. Sudden severe pain can be a sign of an underlying issue that requires immediate attention.
   
• Sudden Change in Function: Any abrupt decline in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities can be indicative of an underlying health problem, such as a stroke or infection.
   
• Cognitive Emergencies: Conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease can lead to situations where the individual becomes disoriented, agitated, or exhibits challenging behavior that requires immediate intervention.
   
• Bleeding: Gastrointestinal bleeding, intracranial bleeding, or other bleeding episodes can be life-threatening in older adults due to potential underlying health issues.