Geriatric primer: implications and management of decline for the elderly patient

Decline among older adults has the potential to produce dramatic changes in the elderly person's life, having an influence on the place of residence, self-sufficiency, and quality of life. Although the prevalence of decline among the elderly had decreased, the relevance of this topic will continue to grow with the expansion of the elderly population. It is important to understand the terminology used to describe decline, how it is measured, its ramifications, associated risk factors, and potential causes in order to participate in preventing and managing decline. Pharmacists should also be aware of the relationship of medications to decline including the management of causative conditions and medication-use patterns that are associated with decline. Finally, pharmacists must be prepared to help elderly patients who are having difficulties administering medications as a result of decline.