Citation

Ellis B, Lowthian JA, Melady D. CJEM 2021; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians, Publisher Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1007/s43678-021-00106-x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This White Paper is the product of the Geriatric Emergency Medicine Special Interest Group (GEMSIG) of the International Federation of Emergency Medicine (IFEM). It highlights that older people are the fastest growing demographic in most countries; that they access emergency services for many different reasons; and that it is essential to consider their multiple needs when developing emergency care systems. Addressing the needs of the whole person, even at times of acute illness or injury, offers a great opportunity to improve older people's lives. This paper provides guidance to health care systems by stating general principles and giving practical examples that can be modified across all income and resource settings.

Excellent health care for older people during acute episodes of illness or injury is important for the well-being of individuals and the economic viability of societies. To ensure that the care needs of older people are met effectively and appropriately, emergency departments (EDs) and health care systems must address their multiple needs and those of the communities in which they live. Older ED patients are different from younger adults not only anatomically and physiologically, but also in terms of mechanisms of injury, presentation of symptoms, function, cognitive changes, social needs, goals of care, complexity, and heterogeneity. Successful care of older patients requires more than episodic care of illness and injury. It also requires attention to their social, psychological, functional needs, and to effective transitions across the health care system.

Experience in many settings demonstrates that simple changes in the approach to care of older people in the ED can have a profound impact on outcomes. However, it requires deliberate clinical and infrastructure changes. IFEM member organizations are encouraged to use this White Paper to influence local and national decision makers...

Language: en