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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
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A Point-of-Care Method with Integrated Decision Support Tool to Estimate Anemia at Population Level
Published on: January 19, 2024
Anemia in older adults.
Ayhan Aytekin Lash1, Sharon M Coyer
1Northern Illinois University, School of Nursing, DeKalb, IL, USA.
Medsurg Nursing : Official Journal of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses
|December 5, 2008
Summary
Anemia in older adults significantly impacts quality of life and increases health risks. This review covers its causes, diagnosis, and management strategies for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Hematology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Anemia is a prevalent condition in older adults, often overlooked.
- It is linked to diminished quality of life, cognitive decline, and functional impairment.
- Anemia in the elderly increases risks of falls, infections, morbidity, and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence, etiology, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of anemia in the older adult population.
- To identify collaborative interventions for managing anemia in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of anemia in older adults.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on prevalence, causes, and diagnosis.
- Identification of management strategies and collaborative approaches.
Main Results:
- Anemia in older adults is associated with significant negative health outcomes.
- Understanding the multifaceted causes is crucial for diagnosis.
- Effective management requires a collaborative approach involving patients, families, and healthcare providers.
Conclusions:
- Anemia poses a serious health challenge for older adults, affecting multiple aspects of well-being.
- Comprehensive diagnostic approaches are necessary.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration is key to successful anemia management in this demographic.
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