The geriatric emergency literature 2020: COVID and beyond

Older adults are a rapidly growing patient population with unique characteristics and health considerations. Over the past few years, emergency physicians have started to recognize the complexities and importance of Geriatric Emergency Medicine. Several noteworthy elements of their healthcare were brought to the forefront of emergency medicine because this especially vulnerable patient population was disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Clinical topics such as delirium, telehealth, end-of-life care, and elder abuse came into focus; select relevant articles are reviewed. We also highlight equally notable literature which address clinically challenging topics, such as hip fractures and syncope. Finally, articles about improving the experience of and decreasing recidivism in geriatric emergency department patients are reviewed. In short, this review article summarizes geriatric emergency medicine literature that can help you improve your practice while caring for older adults. (c) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The healthcare considerations for the rapidly growing older adult patient population are gaining recognition, particularly in the field of Geriatric Emergency Medicine, especially in light of the pandemic. This review article examines various clinical topics like delirium, telehealth, end-of-life care, and elder abuse, while also addressing challenging topics like hip fractures and syncope.