Anemia in the Long-Term Care Setting

Anemia has a higher prevalence among residents of long-term care setting. Signs and symptoms of anemia in this group are more insidious and can be overlooked and attributed to other disease manifestations or old age. Available data on the consequences of anemia suggest worse outcomes in heart failure; cognitive and functional decline; and increased rates of falls, hospitalizations, and mortality. Diagnosis and treatment of anemia in long-term care residents should be considered based on cost and benefit to the patient and patient's and/or caregiver's preferences.