There are a number of issues that must be considered in geriatric pain assessment. The major issues that merit attention are presence of comorbidities, mental status, depression in late life, limitations in ADLs, medications, and the importance of family and other support systems (see Depression; Social Networks, Support, and Integration). (more…)

Unfortunately, many dementias are partially or completely biologically irreversible. However, as mentioned previously, it is important to recognize that all dementias are treatable. Some of these irreversible dementias are preventable. For example, automobile accidents in civilian populations and projectile wounds in military populations are common causes of brain damage that cause dementia. Some improvements can occur in these conditions for a period of time after the initial insult, but affected individuals are left with varying degrees of impairment and often severe limitations in function. (more…)

Osteoporosis is disease affecting the bones, making them fragile and prone to fracture. Osteoporosis is defined as a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioraton of bone mass tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by mass loss of the normal density of bone. (more…)