[70 plus: a Challenge for the Family Doctor and the Gastroenterologist]

In elderly patients, dysphagia, fecal incontinence, gastrointestinal malignant diseases and bleeding as well as ischemia of the small and large bowel are increased compared to younger patients. These diseases often significantly decrease the quality of life and survival, however, they can often be treated quite successfully if the diagnosis is made early enough. History and clinical presentation in the elderly are often unspecific, thus further investigations – especially in the emergency situation – such as laboratory examinations, abdominal ultrasound, computer tomography and endoscopy are often necessary. In elderly patients, drug therapy, endoscopic and surgical procedures must be adjusted to the biological age, the current drug therapy and the wishes of the patient and his relatives. An optimal care for elderly gastrointestinal patients is challenging for the family doctor and the gastroenterologist.