Pharmacological approaches to cognitive deficits and incontinence (1899-2002): progress in geriatric care

In planning for the medical needs of our growing population of older adults, it has been assumed that modern pharmacology of common geriatric conditions includes strategies not considered in previous decades. However, examination of the 1899 edition of the Merck Manual demonstrates that many important contributors to geriatric disability had already started to be recognized in the 19th century. Moreover, some of the medications recommended for these conditions in 1899 were based on the same pharmacological principles as 'state-of-the-art' management options available in 2002.