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Dementia diagnosis and osteoporosis treatment propensity: a population-based nested case-control study
Jennifer A Knopp-Sihota1, Greta G Cummings, Christine V Newburn-Cook
1Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Geriatrics & Gerontology International
|September 3, 2013
Summary
Older adults with dementia are less likely to receive osteoporosis treatment, even with multiple health conditions. This study highlights a gap in care for this vulnerable population, emphasizing the need for improved osteoporosis management in dementia patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Osteoporosis poses significant risks, especially for older adults and those with dementia.
- Dementia diagnosis and advanced age are critical factors influencing health outcomes and treatment adherence.
- Understanding osteoporosis treatment patterns in relation to dementia is crucial for geriatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors associated with osteoporosis medication use in older adults.
- To specifically examine the impact of dementia diagnosis on osteoporosis treatment.
- To identify disparities in osteoporosis care among elderly individuals with and without dementia.
Main Methods:
- Population-based, retrospective, nested case-control study using administrative healthcare data.
- Inclusion criteria: community-based individuals aged 65+ with osteoporosis and continuous drug plan enrollment (1991-2007).
- Multivariate logistic regression analyzed the relationship between dementia, age, sex, comorbidity, residence, and medication dispensation.
Main Results:
- Nearly half (48.5%) of the osteoporosis cohort received medication; those without dementia were treated significantly more often (P < 0.001).
- Dementia patients receiving treatment were younger, female, had fewer prior fractures, and more comorbidities.
- Dementia diagnosis was a negative predictor of treatment (aOR 0.55), while comorbidity increased treatment likelihood (aOR 3.30).
Conclusions:
- Older adults with dementia are undertreated for osteoporosis, despite medication availability.
- Dementia diagnosis significantly reduces the odds of receiving osteoporosis medication.
- Further research is needed to address treatment gaps and improve care for this population.
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