by Rayone Moreira Costa Veloso Souto  , Rafael Belo Corassa  , José Veloso Souto Júnior  , Elaine Leandro Machado  and Otaliba Libânio de Morais Neto

Received: 12 September 2025;  Published: 27 March 2026;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2601337

Elder abuse is a global public health issue, with consequences on individual health, increased burden on healthcare systems, and high social costs. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of family violence among older adults in Brazil and analyze its association with disability, comorbidities, functional limitation, and sociodemographic characteristics. Cross-sectional study using data from the 2019 National Health Survey (PNS 2019), including older adults aged 60 years or older. Bivariate and multiple logistic [...]

by Joshua M. Baruth  , Jennifer Geske  , Elizabeth Sokolowski  and Maria I. Lapid

Received: 14 October 2025;  Published: 10 March 2026;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2601336

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) are complex conditions with chronic symptoms and impairments associated with greater risk for physical comorbidity and early mortality. Understanding end-of-life care in older adults with SSDs is crucial for improving geriatric psychiatric care and identifying healthcare disparities. A cohort of 254 older adult decedents with a history of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder was identified using the Rochester Epidemiology Project. A control group of 254 older adult deced [...]

by Isabelle Wallach  , Julie Beauchamp  , Tamara Sussman  , Arianne Laplante  and Patrick Durivage

Received: 08 October 2025;  Published: 11 February 2026;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2601335

The sexuality of older adults at advanced stages of illness, or at the end of life, remains a taboo topic that is rarely addressed in the literature and in practice. As a result, the knowledge base informing the support needs of older adults at the final stages of life with regards to sexuality remains scant. The present study seeks to explore experiences of sexuality in older adults with serious illness or receiving palliative care, focusing specifically on the place of sexuality in their lives, the forms of sexua [...]

by Reyhaneh Bakhtiari  , Michelle V. Tomczak  , Stephen D. Langor  , Aaron Granley  , Farah Campbell  and Anthony Singhal

Received: 02 September 2025;  Published: 05 February 2026;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2601334

Driving is a complex cognitive behavior that is an essential part of everyday life and can be broken down into many subcomponents. Due to aging and medication interactions, a wide range of motor, sensory, and cognitive skills that are imperative for driving are affected in older adults. Several studies show that the number of crashes and mortality rates increase by age and the consumption of cannabis and cocaine is associated with a range of adverse mental and physical effects. The purpose of this study was to iden [...]

by OBM Geriatrics Editorial Office

Received: 03 January 2026;  Published: 04 January 2026;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2601333

The editors of OBM Geriatrics would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2025. We greatly appreciate the contribution of expert reviewers, which is crucial to the journal's editorial process. We aim to recognize reviewer contributions through several mechanisms, of which the annual publication of reviewer names is one. Reviewers can download a certificate of recognition directly from our submission system. Additionally, reviewers can sign up to the Web of S [...]

by María Montero-López Lena  , Livia Sánchez Carrasco  and Montserrat Celdrán Castro

Received: 20 June 2025;  Published: 17 December 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2504332

This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Family Inclusion Scale (FIS) for administration to adults and older Mexican adults. To this end, a questionnaire was structured with scales to evaluate family inclusion, loneliness, and perceived stress; the last two scales were previously validated. The sample (n = 347) consisted of young university adults aged 20 to 24 years and their grandparents aged 60 years. The conceptual emphasis of the Family Inclusion Scale generated was the identification of [...]

by Birgit M. Jürgenhake  and Leo M. Oorschot

Received: 23 March 2025;  Published: 19 November 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2504331

This article explores the ongoing work associated with the masterclasses "Towards an Inclusive Living Environment." It critically examines the concept of healthy living for all and aging in place by studying neighborhoods within Dutch cities. The article argues that creating inclusive, healthy environments fosters well-being and promotes a lifestyle of health and autonomy for all. Next to literature studies, we worked with our students in different neighborhoods of The Hague, conducting ethnographic research. Throu [...]

by Brandi M. Crowe  , Karen Kemper  and Marieke Van Puymbroeck

Received: 11 June 2025;  Published: 05 November 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2504330

Falls and fall-related injuries are one of the leading causes of death among older adults aged 65+ in the United States. Americans’ life expectancy has increased and fall risk grows with age. While several evidence-based fall prevention programs are utilized to decrease fall risk among community-dwelling older adults, little research focuses on challenges or strategies related to sustained fall prevention program implementation. The purpose of this multi-method descriptive study was to assess fall risk outcome chan [...]

by Yoko Kawamura

Received: 15 May 2025;  Published: 30 October 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2504329

In Japan, a super-aging society, the development of Ikigai is considered the key to extending healthy longevity in national policy. Thus, activities provided by local governments are designed to encourage Ikigai. At this point, Ikigai has developed its conceptual understanding, which includes its distinctiveness from life purposes and other closely related concepts. Empirical studies using developed measurements have shown that Ikigai has an impact on the mental and physical health of older adults across countries [...]

by Dominique Huvent-Grelle  , Victoire Leroy  , Mikael Horvath  , Laurence Grymonprez  , David Faucomprez  and François Puisieux

Received: 23 May 2025;  Published: 10 October 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2504328

Caring for patients with neurocognitive disorders (NCD) can be challenging for caregivers, with the risk of malnutrition. Observational, retrospective, monocentric study carried out with patient-caregiver dyads admitted to the Memory Day Hospital of the Gerontology Center of the University Hospital of Lille over 6 months in 2023. Our objectives were to identify the socio-characteristics of caregivers who had recently experienced a variation in their weight, their degree of fatigue (using the Fatigue Numerical Ratin [...]

by Deanna Gray-Miceli  , Jeannette Rogowski  and Sarah J. Ratcliffe

Received: 11 March 2025;  Published: 16 September 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503327

Evidence shows the use of interventions to prevent falls are costly to healthcare facilities. Using a sample of older adult patients who fell at least once during the intervention year of a three-year cohort study in one long term care nursing facility, at a continuing care community providing skilled nursing and assisted living, we provide detailed evidence of the number and costs of durable medical equipment and number and type of non- durable medical nursing care interventions utilized to prevent subsequent fall [...]

by Serena A. Schade  , Julia O’Hanlon  and Elizabeth Orsega-Smith

Received: 09 June 2025;  Published: 12 September 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503326

Senior centers serve as community anchors for the approximately 57.8 million older adults in the U.S., offering a range of health promotion programs, including exercise classes. This study examined how the type of exercise programs at senior centers influences older adults’ health (mental, physical, and quality of life) and how baseline physical activity levels may influence these changes as part of a statewide health promotion program evaluation in senior centers in Delaware. The exercise programs offered were bas [...]

by Giacinto Libertini

Received: 04 December 2024;  Published: 10 September 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503325

There is a main difference between theories explaining aging as an adaptive phenomenon that is determined and modulated by genes (i.e., the result of a specific “program”) and theories explaining aging as a non-adaptive phenomenon caused by the accumulation of random degenerative events. In fact, for adaptive theories, a genetically determined and modulated program determining aging is indispensable, while for non-adaptive theories, such a program cannot exist. However, there appears to be strong evidence to suppor [...]

by Gabriele Saretzki

Received: 21 May 2025;  Published: 09 September 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503324

Telomeres are repetitive structures at the ends of linear chromosomes. Due to incomplete DNA replication at the end of linear DNA molecules, the so called “end replication problem”, telomeres shorten consecutively during cell division. In addition, telomere sequences are highly susceptible to oxidative stress damaging telomeres and resulting in their dysfunction even in non-dividing cells. Telomere shortening has been identified as one of the underlying causes for replicative senescence that can also contribute to [...]

by Giuseppe Cocco  , Hans Peter Hofmann  and Stefano Pandolfi

Received: 17 February 2025;  Published: 09 September 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503323

Older adults are a growing population characterized by a high prevalence of multimorbidity and age-related conditions, such as organ and pharmacokinetic dysfunction. Medical digital technologies have emerged through the combined use of wearable, implantable, and insertable medical devices with digital systems. Gerontology aims to help older patients with disabilities utilize these technologies. These technologies are used in high-tech medical centers, particularly among older cardiac patients. Many cardiac societie [...]

by Ali Barikroo  and Alyssa Zinser

Received: 28 April 2025;  Published: 13 August 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503322

Age-related decline in swallowing function increases the risk of dysphagia in older adults. Strengthening the muscles involved in swallowing through proactive training may help prevent such decline, particularly in prefrail individuals. This case series evaluated the feasibility and physiological effects of a home-based effortful swallow training program in three prefrail older adults without swallowing impairments. The intervention used a wearable surface electromyography biofeedback device (Mobili-T®) to provide [...]

by Mohan Tanniru  and Amanda Sokan

Received: 03 March 2025;  Published: 11 August 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503321

Aging is a multifaceted journey shaped by diverse life-course experiences, which contribute both to the challenges populations face in achieving their health goals and to the competencies they can bring to sustain health and aging. Community strategies designed to support population health—by leveraging technology and external partners—require transformation to effectively extend their focus to aging-related goals. In this paper, we adopt a service lens to examine how these community strategies, which co-produce pr [...]

by Edward F. Coyle

Received: 20 February 2025;  Published: 08 August 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503320

The shrinkage of muscles with age, beginning at 30 y and accelerating in old age, is due largely to atrophy of fast-twitch muscle fibers (FT) partly from disuse. It was our purpose to develop an exercise program that is effective and time efficient at stimulating FT, as well as slow-twitch fibers (ST), to offset their atrophy. FT are recruited during movements requiring very high force and/or high velocity. We developed a safe exercise cycle that allows a person to ‘accelerate’ with the maximal effort needed to rec [...]

by Deanna Gray-Miceli

Received: 04 February 2025;  Published: 01 August 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503319

The purpose of this original research was to describe the lived experience and meaning of a serious fall to independently residing older adults. A qualitative phenomenological approach was utilized with a purposive sample of 19, independent, high-level functioning older adult residents of a Continuing Care Retirement Community to describe their most serious fall and its personal meaning. Traced through multiple data sources, interpretive analysis of the language expressed by older adults were integrated to support [...]

by OBM Geriatrics Editorial Office

Received: 02 July 2025;  Published: 02 July 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2503318

by Sanaz Taherzadeh  , Deanna Gray-Miceli  , Ksenia Zukowsky  , Kathy Gray  and Sarah J. Ratcliffe

Received: 01 February 2025;  Published: 26 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502317

Falls are a serious global public health issue affecting individuals of all ages, resulting in serious injuries, fatalities, and extended hospital stays. While knowledge and attitude of healthcare staff toward fall prevention are understood to impact patient safety, less well known are the type and content of fall prevention surveys used to identify nurses’ knowledge of fall prevention. Until now, no study has systematically reviewed the universe of existing tests, surveys, and programs used to assess fall pr [...]

by Alicia Morales  , Vania Cataldo  , Diego Berrios  , Ana Beatriz  , Karen Danke  , Gisela Jara  , Fabiola Werlinger  , Mauricio Baeza  , Viviana García Ubillo  and Jorge Gamonal

Received: 03 November 2024;  Published: 11 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502316

It has been suggested that an individual's overall functional capacity gradually declines with age. It has been reported that a decline in oral functionality increases the risk of sarcopenia and frailty, which contributes to the decrease in functional capacity. In Chile, the Preventive Medical Examination for Older Adults (EMPAM) is used to assess the functionality of that population; however, this examination does not include an evaluation of oral functionality. To address this gap, the Preventive Dental Examinati [...]

by Ahmad Abdallatif  and Sherif Isaac

Received: 25 November 2024;  Published: 02 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502315

Meta-analysist to evaluate impact of Surgical Methods on Outcomes in periprosthetic supracondylar knee fracture management. This study examines the rate of functional outcomes and complications associated with two distinct surgical methods for the management of periprosthetic supracondylar knee fractures in patients treated with Low Contact Locking Plates (LCP) and Retrograde Intramedullary Nails (RIMN). With the growing prevalence of total knee replacements, the incidence of periprosthetic supracondylar knee fract [...]

by Maggi A Budd  and Michelle E Mlinac

Received: 30 January 2025;  Published: 30 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502314

Identifying and addressing ethical issues in the care of older adults can be complex and challenging in clinical settings. This article reviews specific ethical principles including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, dignity, and justice, and explores them in the context of interprofessional geriatric care. Situations and related ethical components such as treatment in intensive care units, end-of-life care, dementia care, and aging with advancing technology are included. Case scenarios for each principle or s [...]

by Lucy Keers  , Claudia Lee  , Samara White  and Tammie Lee Demler

Received: 18 February 2025;  Published: 29 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502313

Pleural effusions are defined as accumulations of fluid in the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs. They are often secondary outcomes of underlying conditions, such as congestive heart failure, malignancy, or pneumonia. Acute cases of COVID-19 pneumonia have been linked to episodes of pleural effusion, but these cases are often rare. In this report, we analyze a case of pleural effusion in a 71-year-old female patient who had been declining after a recent COVID-19 infection and later died in the hospital. It is no [...]

by Ana Santos  , Elsa Abreu  , Márcia Assunção  , Catarina Simões  and Rita Figueiredo

Received: 31 January 2025;  Published: 28 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502312

The growing number of individuals with palliative care needs has led to an increased demand for specialized palliative care teams.. However, these teams often struggle to meet the demand, requiring all nurses to recognize and provide appropriate care during a patient’s last hours and days of life (LHDL). This case report aims to highlight the importance of identifying the LHDL and implementing individualized and adjusted care plans based on the 10/40 model of care. A descriptive-reflective case report following the [...]

by Brittany Montgomery  , Calvin Mammen  and Matt Golden

Received: 18 October 2024;  Published: 09 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502311

Assistive technology (AT) interventions have shown promising results in supporting cognitive, social, and physical activities in persons living with dementia (PLWD) and their caregivers. Despite strong evidence of the effectiveness of AT, PLWD and their caregivers can disengage with the technology after it is used for a time – i.e., the “stickiness challenge”. Diminished use of AT reduces the opportunity for it to have optimal impact. We asked whether the opportunity to engage in cognitive games may enhance continu [...]

by OBM Geriatrics Editorial Office

Received: 27 April 2025;  Published: 28 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502310

by Adam Spandorfer  , Katelyn Stuart  , Judy Daboul  , Gavisha Waidyaratne  and Subhankar Chakraborty

Received: 12 December 2024;  Published: 28 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502309

Dysphagia in the geriatric population, age 65 or older, is increasingly common and a growing concern among healthcare providers. Not only can it critically impact quality of life, but it can also lead to clinically significant malnutrition, hospitalizations, increased length of stays, and has been shown to impact mortality. A multi-disciplinary approach to assess oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal etiologies is key to guiding targeted management, which can include behavioral modifications, medications, and endoscopic [...]

by M. Lourdes Mourelle  and Leonel Pereira

Received: 26 January 2025;  Published: 17 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502308

The increasing consumer demand for cosmetic products has led to the widespread use of synthetic substances, which are inexpensive and readily available but can sometimes harm the skin and body. Examples include hydroxybenzoic acid esters (parabens) and phthalates, which are considered endocrine disruptors, and synthetic fragrances that may cause irritation or allergies. Consequently, there has been a shift in consumer preferences towards natural cosmetic products. In response to this demand and the expanding market [...]

by Stefan Hardy Lung  and Thomas Lung

Received: 30 November 2024;  Published: 14 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502307

Cellular senescence (aging) is a physiological process that plays a role in tissue remodeling, wound healing, and embryogenesis. Prolonged senescence of cells can have detrimental effects and trigger a secretory phenotype (SASP, senescence-associated secretory phenotype), degenerative disorders, cancer, and age-related diseases. Suitable biomarkers and a range of different laboratory methods are used to investigate these complex relationships in vitro and in vivo. Since a universal biomarker for cell senescence has [...]

by Modupe Akintomide  , Xinyue Zhang  , Lota Iwuagwu  and Mary Ramos

Received: 03 October 2024;  Published: 10 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502306

About 90% of people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias experience behavioral and psychological symptoms during the course of the disorder. Although extensive research exists on the roles of informal caregivers in dementia care, their abilities to manage behavioral symptoms and the resources they turn to for support remain understudied. This phenomenological study explored informal caregivers' experience, knowledge sources, and self-initiated strategies for managing behavioral symptoms of dementia [...]

by Julia Baumann  , Eva Bönzli  , Franziska Wandrey  and Torsten Grothe

Received: 09 December 2024;  Published: 03 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502305

The complex process of skin aging results in noticeable changes, including decreased collagen content, reduced elasticity, and decreased hydration. Interventions to preserve or restore collagen, a key structural protein, may help counteract these signs. The concept of "beauty from within” through nutritional supplements is of growing interest, particularly the use of plant-based alternatives to animal-derived or synthetic collagen. This study investigated the anti-aging potential of an extract from Moldavian dragon [...]

by Jasmin Hundal  and Mariam AlHilli

Received: 19 August 2024;  Published: 19 March 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501304

Elderly patients with ovarian and pancreatic cancer frequently experience malnutrition and sarcopenia, which negatively impact treatment tolerance, functional outcomes, and survival. The increasing use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in this population necessitates structured interventions to mitigate these challenges. While prehabilitation has shown promise in enhancing treatment tolerance and quality of life, its role during chemotherapy remains underexplored. This prospective study evaluates the feasibility and impa [...]

by Deanna Gray-Miceli  and Sarah J. Ratcliffe

Received: 30 January 2024;  Published: 10 March 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501303

This research sought to determine feasibility for RNs to use the Post Fall Index™ (PFI) and to determine if an RN could identify underlying causal event factors for falls, would it be congruent with other providers (advanced practice nurse [APN], physician [MD])? PFI data from 23 falling residents of a nursing home were compiled into clinical vignettes and reviewed by experts for underlying causal event factors/fall sub-types. RNs used the PFI for one month in practice. The RN generated the most diagnoses; pe [...]

by Sudha Ramaprasad  , Atmakur Snigdha  , Nandi Krishnamurthy Manjunath  and Vijaya Majumdar

Received: 14 October 2024;  Published: 03 March 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501302

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased stress and disrupted routines affecting the psycho-social health of older adults, a vulnerable section of the population. Yogic practices have shown the potential to reduce stress, inflammation, and psychological health among other benefits. Hence, we explored the benefits of regular yoga practice on specific key mental health attributes in older adults amidst the pandemic. Using a case-control design, older adults (n = 54) who had been regularly practising yoga for the past six [...]

by Cesar Augustus Zocoler de Sousa  , Ana Paula Renno Sierra  , Giscard Humberto Oliveira Lima  , Bryan Steve Martínez Galán  , Hermes Vieira Barbeiro  , Heraldo Possolo de Souza  and Maria Fernanda Cury-Boaventura

Received: 20 August 2024;  Published: 28 February 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501301

This study compared markers of muscle damage and myokines between adult and middle-aged runners before and after the marathon. Seventy-four male runners: 48 adults aged 30-44 years (AA group), and 26 middle-aged individuals aged 45-59 years (MA group) participated of the study. Blood samples were collected 24 hours before, immediately after, 24 hours and 72 hours after the marathon to measure skeletal and cardiac muscle damage markers (CK, LDH, troponin, and proBNP) and myokines (IL-6, IL-15, decorin, BDNF, GDF-15, [...]

by Chuk Ling Julian Lai  , Wei Yin  and Jianwei Shi

Received: 20 July 2024;  Published: 02 March 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501300

Based on a framework derived from theories of social integration and health, this study examined the relationships between motivation to cultivate social ties or network cultivation, and diurnal salivary cortisol in Chinese older adults. The main objective was to determine the behavioral mechanism that translated a higher motivation to cultivate social ties into healthier diurnal cortisol rhythms in 82 community-dwelling elders in Shanghai. Participants were provided four saliva samples immediately, 30 minutes, and [...]

by Byron J. Hoogwerf

Received: 09 July 2024;  Published: 20 February 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501299

Sarcopenia is more common in persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than in persons without diabetes. There is overlap of some pathophysiologic features of sarcopenia and T2DM. In addition, the risk for sarcopenia is associated with common complications of T2DM including renal disease, cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. Glycemic control in T2DM may have some benefits on sarcopenia. The specific effects of glucose lowering agents on sarcopenia suggest that metformin, insulin, thiazolidinediones and GLP1 re [...]

by Ana Marta Menezes  , Dalila Silva  , Catarina Simões  and Rita Figueiredo

Received: 29 October 2024;  Published: 18 February 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501298

Chronic Kidney Disease is characterized by progressive, persistent, and irreversible loss of kidney function, with a high prevalence and increasing trend in the population. An important observation, common to all recent studies, is the constant changes experienced by these individuals. Analytical changes, health status and the patient's preferences should be considered when planning anticipatory care at any phase of the disease. To comprehend the significance of the Anticipatory Care Plan for Patients with End-Stag [...]

by Urs Nydegger  and Paul Imbach

Received: 18 July 2024;  Published: 23 January 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501297

In addition to their hemostatic functions, platelets play an essential role in immunologic interactions, which is confirmed by the observation of an increase in platelet counts in patients with immune-related thrombocytopenia and other autoimmune diseases after immunomodulatory treatment with intravenous human immunoglobulin concentrate. The mechanisms of action of this biological therapeutic option induce the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, agonists, and antagonists that target the complex pathop [...]

by Harnish P Patel  , Faidra Laskou  and Elaine M Dennison

Received: 15 February 2024;  Published: 23 January 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501296

Sarcopenia is characterised by progressive and generalised decline in muscle strength, function, and muscle mass. Now recognised as a muscle disease, it is highly prevalent in older adults, with estimates of up to 30% in some populations. Sarcopenia has a complex multifactorial aetiology, including cellular and molecular changes, chronic disease, lower physical activity as well as nutritional deficiency. Sarcopenia is associated with a range of adverse physical and metabolic outcomes leading to disability, morbidit [...]

by Diana Viafara  , Ana L. Jaramillo-Sierra  and Laura Sofía Vega-Plazas

Received: 15 June 2024;  Published: 12 January 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501295

This research article aims to address the critical gap in understanding intimate partner violence (IPV) among older women, particularly those over 60 years of age, in Colombian society. The study explores how IPV manifests during the later stages of life, providing insights specific to this age group. The research used qualitative methodology with 14 urban women who had experienced intimate partner violence in their later life. The study revealed that psychological violence was the most common type of abuse among o [...]

by Karen A. Roberto  , Pamela B. Teaster  and Imogen Fua

Received: 23 August 2024;  Published: 09 January 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501294

The purpose of this descriptive study was to understand the nature, extent, and challenges confronted by APS programs in the United States in providing services to older clients affected by opioids. The study design involved a two-step process: Phase I involved telephone interviews with state-level Adult Protective Services administrators from 11 states considered to be “hot-bed states” for the opioid epidemic. Findings from the administrator interviews informed questions for Phase II telephone interviews with indi [...]

by OBM Geriatrics Editorial Office

Received: 02 January 2025;  Published: 02 January 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2501293

The editors of OBM Geriatrics would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2024. We greatly appreciate the contribution of expert reviewers, which is crucial to the journal’s editorial process. We aim to recognize reviewer contributions through several mechanisms, of which the annual publication of reviewer names is one. Reviewers can download a certificate of recognition directly from our submission system. Additionally, reviewers can sign up to the Web of S [...]

by Aileen M. Lynch  , Gabrielle McKee  , Fintan Sheerin  , Jean-Luc Bosson  , Monique Epstein  , Ariane Girault  , Carole Rolland  , Mary Harkin  , Ciaran McKinney  and Pierre Gillois

Received: 05 June 2024;  Published: 17 December 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2404292

While the facilitators/barriers for the initiation of physical activity (PA) are well documented, there is less known about these facilitators/barriers for maintenance of PA in the older population in general and not following an intervention. This study aimed to explore older adults’ perspectives on the facilitators/barriers to maintaining PA. The study used descriptive qualitative design, with three focus groups, one in Ireland and two in France. Participants were community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years) 66% w [...]

by Rebecca H. Affoo  and Ashwini Namasivayam-MacDonald

Received: 06 August 2024;  Published: 09 December 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2404291

A conceptual model was developed to create a basis for understanding the risk factors and outcomes associated with dysphagia and to hypothesize the nature of the relationship between certain factors. The conceptual model was developed by two academic speech-language pathologists with ≥10 years research and clinical experience in swallowing and dysphagia in older adults. A comprehensive review of English-language literature was conducted, and relevant, evidence-informed factors associated with dysphagia in older adu [...]

by Mega Obukohwo Oyovwi  and Edarho Oghenevwede Oyovwi

Received: 08 May 2024;  Published: 29 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403290

Elder abuse is a hidden epidemic, with millions of older adults experiencing physical, psychological, or financial harm each year. However, the true extent of the problem is unknown due to under-reporting and lack of reliable data. This paper aims to provide an international perspective on the hidden epidemic of elder abuse, exploring the prevalence, risk factors, and consequences of this global issue. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using multiple databases. Studies from various countries were [...]

by David F. Bayne  , Willow Keefe  and Samantha E. Shune

Received: 01 July 2024;  Published: 28 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403289

Informal caregivers play a critical role in supporting individuals with dementia, yet often face significant challenges that impact their own quality of life (QoL). This exploratory study investigates the multifaceted factors contributing to caregiver QoL, particularly focusing on care recipient factors including dysphagia, dietary restriction, dementia severity, and care recipient QoL. A total of 24 informal caregivers of persons with dementia (PWD) participated in an online survey assessing various factors believ [...]

by Tammie Lee Demler  , Samantha Morales  , Geoffrey Brown  , Andrea Derosas  and Claudia Lee

Received: 18 March 2024;  Published: 14 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403288

There are few reports that describe incidence of hypothermia in patients treated with olanzapine. We report a case of an elderly 83-year-old black male, readmitted to the state psychiatric hospital December 2023 due to psychiatric exacerbation after 6 months of successful discharge to community, who experienced a fall and profound hypothermia with bradycardia that resulted in a 10-day acute hospitalization in January 2024. Medical workup was unrevealing except for multivessel disease found on CT stroke study of the [...]

by Kristi R. Mitchell  , Margaret Dittloff  , Jasmine Larson  and Donna Belcher

Received: 10 April 2024;  Published: 10 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403287

Effective January 2024, the United States Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the first time has included a nutrition-focused quality measure in the Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) Inpatient Quality Reporting (IQR) Program: the Global Malnutrition Composite Score (GMCS). The GMCS is an electronic clinical quality measure (eCQM) that hospitals can choose to report voluntarily to meet the requirements for IPPS IQR payments. The GMCS can help improve hospital malnutrition care and h [...]

by Amrin Ahmed  , Alixe Ménard  , Alison C Novak  , Nancy Edwards  and Sarah Fraser

Received: 27 May 2024;  Published: 28 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403286

Older adults are disproportionately susceptible to hospitalizations and fatalities due to stair-related falls. While many intrinsic risk factors, such as mobility and vision, may increase the likelihood of falls on stairs, features of the stairs that increase the risk of falls are understudied. This study aimed to capture older adults’ perspectives of stair falls, as well as introduce the Safer Steps app and explore its feasibility in this population. This m-health technology was designed to gather data on st [...]

by Jie Zhang  , Jichao Wang  , Jill M. Norvilitis  and Wanting Fang

Received: 11 March 2024;  Published: 23 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403285

This paper examines whether different types of intergenerational support have different effects on life satisfaction among the elderly, and whether a gender difference exists in the effect of intergenerational support on the elderly’s life satisfaction. Data from the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS) were used for this study. The study sample consisted of 10,801 cases. A logit regression model was used for empirical verification. All types of intergenerational support were found to have effects on life [...]

by Vikas Dhikav  , Prerna Bhati  , Pankaj Kumar  and Praveen Kumar Anand

Received: 18 June 2023;  Published: 05 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403284

This scoping review aims to review the effectiveness of yoga as a complementary intervention for improving mental health outcomes in the geriatric population globally. Yoga is practiced by millions worldwide. Since practitioners of yoga claim to have calmer minds and better psychological and physical health, this topic needs to be reviewed at length. There is a considerable treatment gap worldwide in treating mental disorders, especially in old age, and there is a shortage of low-cost, feasible, and acceptable prev [...]

by Elsa Abreu  , Catarina Simões  and Rita Figueiredo

Received: 02 March 2024;  Published: 31 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403283

Skin is the largest organ of the human body. Skin changes can result from natural ageing, as well as from acute or chronic diseases and failure of body systems. Various types of wounds are identified in Palliative Care, and terminal pressure ulcers are often incorrectly classified. This case study highlights the importance of recognizing skin ulcers in patients’ last hours and days of life as a diagnostic indicator for impending death. The first focus of nursing care was pain management and maintaining skin integri [...]

by Mélanie Couture  , Julien Gauthier-Mongeon  , Pearce Simamonika  , Rosalie Bernard  , Kevin St-Martin  , Rosalie Lacasse  and Sarita Israel

Received: 18 December 2023;  Published: 17 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403282

Research indicates that adults in the context of gender and sexual diversity (GSD) experienced more violence and discrimination than the rest of the population. GSD refers to all the diversities of sexual characteristics, sexual orientations and gender identity of a person or a group. To encourage the use of evidence-based interventions in health and social services, it is important to extrapolate from the scientific literature how mistreatment situations are managed in this context. A scoping review was conducted [...]

by Regina M. Mackey  , Macaila Eick  , Sara Jacobsen  , Abraham Labrada Satiago  and Maria I. Lapid

Received: 26 February 2024;  Published: 01 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403281

How should Palliative Medicine competencies be taught to medical students? In the United States and other countries, there is a consensus that teaching Palliative Medicine competencies to medical students is essential. Health agencies have also identified teaching Palliative Medicine competencies as crucial. According to Sanchez-Reilly and Ross, medical students reported that they feel better prepared to care for the elderly, patients with severe illness, and dying patients after completing formal training. The aut [...]

by Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos  , Donna Naturale  , Brynn Mahurter  , Sara Curren  and Ryan J. Koliopoulos

Received: 03 February 2024;  Published: 29 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2402280

There is not enough information regarding the impact of stigma associated with a. diagnosis of diabetes in aging older adults. Perceptions of diabetes are passed down generationally and may be influenced by mainstream societal perceptions at the time the perception is shaped. This is known as a multigenerational legacy of diabetes for those with whom the perceptions are shaped within families when a hereditarily predisposed condition occurs. In this study, participants over the age of (n = 88) 60 years old were adm [...]

by Shashya Wijesinghe  and Elizabeta B. Mukaetova-Ladinska

Received: 03 March 2024;  Published: 10 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2402279

In the UK, 25,000 people from ethnic minority background live with dementia. Although dementia associated risk factors are common amongst South Asians, they tend to present at services later and when in crisis. This review explores UK South Asian communities perception of dementia to understand factors impacting their decision to seek help. Search terms assisted by the PICO strategy were inputted into five databases and ten qualitative papers identified. Meta-ethnography methodological framework was implemented for [...]

by Gloria Gutman  , Mojgan Karbakhsh  and Heather Stewart

Received: 20 December 2023;  Published: 16 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2402278

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older adults may be more vulnerable to elder abuse (EA) due to prior marginalization and trauma, lifelong discrimination, and health disparities. While characteristics of both victims and perpetrators can modify the risk for EA, few studies have focused on perpetrators. This study examined the number and type of perpetrator-victim relationships and perpetrator profiles for EA experienced in the prior year, by abuse type and sexual orientation and gender identity of the abused. Data [...]

by Behzad Foroutan

Received: 26 December 2022;  Published: 09 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2402277

This narrative review aimed to select, gather, and present inclusive evidence about osteoporosis etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, diet, and treatment. We searched PubMed and Google using these terms: osteoporosis AND etiology, osteoporosis AND epidemiology, osteoporosis AND diagnosis, osteoporosis AND diet, and osteoporosis AND treatment. Each title of the extracted manuscripts was read first. If deemed suitable, the abstracts of the manuscripts and text were read carefully. Afterward, the details of each term we [...]

by Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi  , Oluwole Tolulope David  , Adelakun Ademola Ayodele  , Ajayi Lydia Oluwatoyin  , Oyowvi Mega Obukohwo  , Oyedokun Precious  , Akanbi Grace Bosede  , Dare Sarah Nene  and Adeniran Adebola Magret

Received: 11 January 2024;  Published: 03 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2402276

This review aims to bring attention to the growing issue of andropause, a condition that affects men as they age. The literature was identified by searching the major bibliographic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, Web of Science, and CINAHL. Studies were included if they focused on strategies for reducing and preventing andropause, published between 1980 and 2023. Andropause, which is often overlooked and misconceived, is the result of a decrease in testosterone production and can result in p [...]

by Nicole Dawson  , Ashleigh Trapuzzano  and Katherine S. Judge

Received: 08 December 2023;  Published: 03 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2402275

Latest estimates indicate that 5-7% of the population are living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias worldwide with a doubling in incidence expected every 20 years. Rehabilitation professionals are challenged with the complex needs of these patients. It is commonly thought that patients with dementia do not benefit from rehabilitation because of cognitive decline, behaviors, lack of communication, or difficulties in learning; however, current literature indicates this is not accurate. With proper knowled [...]

by Jennifer Marchbank  , KJ Reed  , Claire Robson  , Gloria Gutman  and Balbir Gurm

Received: 04 January 2024;  Published: 18 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401274

Elder abuse occurs to older adults who are members of gender and sexual minorities (GSM). Whilst most of that abuse is similar to that experienced by their heterosexual and cisgender peers GSM older adults face particular vulnerabilities due to their life experiences and changes. In this article we report on our findings from a literature search and knowledge synthesis, conducted as part of a larger project to inform Canadian policy makers working to eliminate gender and sexuality-based inequalities. The review inc [...]

by Giuseppe Cocco  , Hans Peter Hofmann  and Stefano Pandolfi

Received: 27 December 2023;  Published: 11 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401273

Heart failure is one of the major health threats in Western societies, and its prevalence is steadily increasing. Many data show the important impact of sex (biological) and gender (sociocultural) differences on most aspects (diagnosis, etiology, treatments, and outcomes) of heart failure. For example, compared to men, women with heart failure are older, have more co-morbidities, and develop different phenotypes of heart failure. Postpartum cardiopathy is unique in women. The iatrogenic effects of cancer therapies [...]

by Gohar Azhar  , Melodee Harris  , Laura Hays  , Patricia Savary  , Regina V. Gibson  , James R Perry  , Karen Coker  , Amanda Pangle  , Kenneth Alderson  and Jeanne Wei

Received: 08 January 2024;  Published: 06 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401272

The COVID-19 pandemic caused abrupt changes in daily routines, social connections, and ways of life. It is yet unknown the full impacts these extended changes have had on the long-term mental well-being of those who shared this global experience. As a contribution to our overall understanding of this phenomena, this study explored the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental well-being of older adults in the Southern United States. Secondary data analyses were performed using the COVID-19 Emotional Impact Sur [...]

by Marta Evelia Aparicio-García  and Roberto Andrés Lasso Báez

Received: 06 November 2023;  Published: 27 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401271

Older trans people have been largely unaddressed both in the context of the LGBTIQ+ community and in studies on geriatrics and aging. This literature review compiles up-to-date information on transgender elders, providing a summary of the Spanish historical context in which trans people have been raised, and analyzes the areas in which to center possible courses of action and research on a global scale. The themes tackled are the presence of victimization and violence; the effects of medical transition, taking into [...]

by Sue Westwood  , Trish Hafford-Letchfield  and Jemma James

Received: 16 October 2023;  Published: 21 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401270

Research suggests health, social care, and social work professionals who are highly religious, and adhere closely to traditional doctrine, are more likely to take a negative view of LGBTQ people. This includes those who provide services to older people. Negative attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and/or queer (LGBTQ) people can translate into poor care and even abuse. This commentary discusses recent literature on older LGBTQ people’s experiences of religious abuse. It highlights the concerns among man [...]

by Tammy S. Martin

Received: 17 December 2023;  Published: 19 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401269

Clinicians caring for patients, especially those with chronic diseases or older adults, need to recognize the value of being able to transition away from aggressive care when appropriate and focus on a more palliative approach. Research has shown that patients want to have goals of care discussions and maintain autonomy at the end of life. These goals of care discussions can be challenging, and clinicians must prioritize and develop this skill in order to provide their patients with what they may need most. Being a [...]

by Ajay Risal  , Dipak Kunwar  and Barsha Shrestha

Received: 21 December 2023;  Published: 08 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401268

This paper discusses the impact of Depression on the aging population. It also tries to explore the psychosocial risk factors and burden associated with geriatric depression in low-and-middle-income (LAMI) countries. Nepal, a South Asian developing country, is resource-poor and research-naïve. Research, in general, and mental health studies, in particular, are the least prioritized in this country. The lack of culturally adapted psychiatric inventories is one of the possible reasons for the low number of mental hea [...]

by Claire Robson  , Jen Marchbank  and Gloria Gutman

Received: 27 November 2023;  Published: 31 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401267

Though research suggests that older adults belonging to gender and sexual minorities (GSM) are at greater risk of abuse and neglect, more needs to be done to investigate this situation, provide solid data, offer support to survivors and better inform those providing services. This article reports on a participatory action research project in which nine older adults with lived experience of abuse were interviewed, as were the seniors’ programmer from our community partner organization and a trauma counsellor who sup [...]

by Loree Cook-Daniels

Received: 16 July 2023;  Published: 15 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401266

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) elders are vulnerable to both the “usual” types of elder abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse, along with neglect), and with abuse that is specific to the context and history of LGBTQ+ elders. Training for adult protective services, long-term care ombudsmen, and other professionals who work with abused elders therefore should include information and skill-building in responding to this population. Research into effective training about LGBTQ [...]

by OBM Geriatrics Editorial Office

Received: 03 January 2024;  Published: 04 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2401265

The editors of OBM Geriatrics would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2023. We greatly appreciate the contribution of expert reviewers, which is crucial to the journal’s editorial process. We aim to recognize reviewer contributions through several mechanisms, of which the annual publication of reviewer names is one. Reviewers can download a certificate of recognition directly from our submission system. Additionally, reviewers can sign up to the We [...]

by Emily Roberts  , Greg Clare  , Mahendran Balasubramanian  and Quinn Button

Received: 19 July 2022;  Published: 27 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2304264

The global population of adults 65 years of age and older will increase dramatically over the next several decades, presenting economic and social challenges requiring sustainable solutions. Aging is a process in which everyone is already involved, it is a lifelong experience not just a later life occurrence. Changing world demographics illustrate that people are living longer, among the world’s young people, survival to age 80 is expected to be commonplace. This new found “longevity dividend” needs to be maximized [...]

by Andrey Koptyug  , Yurij Sukhovei  , Elena Kostolomova  , Irina Unger  and Vladimir A. Kozlov

Received: 14 April 2023;  Published: 22 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2304263

Understanding processes related to human aging and rejuvenation relies on experimental data and advanced models operating at different levels. There are several existing conceptual and specific modeling approaches. However, one of the existing tasks is compiling generic models linking properties at cell and cell-element levels to properties at systemic levels - tissue, organ, and whole body. One of the critical issues in the relevant models is the enormity of interacting components at the cell and sub-cell levels n [...]