Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother.  2021 Apr;3(2):38-46. 10.36011/cpp.2021.3.e6.

Geriatric Considerations in the Management of Elderly Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases

• Jeon DS

• KMID: 2536945
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2021.3.e6

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most frequently diagnosed disease as well as the leading cause of death in the elderly. It usually results from long-term effects of cardiovascular risk factors as well as the aging process itself. Elderly people commonly have geriatric syndrome, which is an age-specific problem that is complicated by the presence of cardiovascular, cognitive, and physical dysfunction and is accompanied by many other chronic diseases. While caring for the elderly, in addition to CVD, various inherent problems must be considered. The patient-centered approach, instead of evidence-based guidelines that are designed for young adult patients, is the most important concept when it comes to elderly patients with CVD and multiple comorbidities. This approach should be used to maintain the functionality, independence, quality of life, and dignity of these patients.

Keyword

Aging; Cardiovascular diseases; Frail elderly; Frailty; Geriatric assessment

Figure

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  Fig. 1. Threshold for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as a function of cumulative LDL-C exposure. Modified from Ference et al.3)CV = cardiovascular; CVD = cardiovascular diseases; FH = familial hypercholesterolemia; LDL-C = low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

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  Fig. 2. Occurrence of frailty, geriatric syndrome, and disease due to aging.

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  Fig. 3. Clinical frailty scale.Figure has modified from the Canadian Study on Health & Aging, Revised 2008.

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  Fig. 4. Features of elderly patients with cardiovascular diseases.

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