Person-centred Care for Older Adults in PHC

What is the life‑course approach in healthcare?

A framework recognising that health is shaped by critical transitions across life stages, from pre‑conception to older adulthood, influencing current and future wellbeing.

Why is ageing a major issue in Ireland?

Ireland is one of the fastest‑ageing EU countries; adults 65+ will double by 2051, increasing pressure on health and social care systems.

What percentage of adults ≥75 use five or more medications (polypharmacy)?

Almost half.

What percentage of adults ≥58 have multimorbidity?

74%.

What proportion of ADR (Adverse Drug Reaction)‑related hospital admissions in older adults are avoidable?

About 70%.

Name three common medicines associated with ADRs in older adults.

Anticoagulants, NSAIDs, diuretics, antidiabetics, antibiotics.

Why are ADRs difficult to identify in older adults?

They can mimic symptoms of existing medical conditions, making diagnosis challenging.

What is the purpose of integrated care programmes for older people?

To shift care toward community settings, support ageing at home, reduce hospital admissions, and coordinate multidisciplinary care.

Name three components of integrated care for older adults.

Community diagnostics, social prescribing, re‑ablement at home, virtual clinics, MDT support.

What is the GP’s role in preventing osteoporosis?

Assess vitamin D status, encourage weight‑bearing exercise, review medications, address falls risk, and support nutrition.

What does evidence show about vitamin D supplementation?

Reduces falls in vitamin D‑deficient older adults, but does not reduce fracture rates in healthy older adults.

What is the most common type of dementia?

Alzheimer’s disease (60–70% of cases).

Name three risk factors for dementia.

Hearing impairment, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, depression, physical inactivity, social isolation.

What assessments are used in dementia diagnosis?

Cognitive tests (e.g., MMSE), history from patient and family, blood tests, medication review, imaging (CT/MRI).

What are AChE inhibitors used for?

Early‑to‑mid Alzheimer’s disease to mildly improve cognitive symptoms.

Name two AChE inhibitors.

Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine.

What is memantine used for?

Moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease; provides small cognitive improvement.

What is lecanemab?

An anti‑amyloid monoclonal antibody for early Alzheimer’s disease; slows cognitive decline but has risks such as brain bleeds.

Why are antipsychotics risky in dementia?

Limited effectiveness and increased risk of stroke, death, confusion, falls, arrhythmias, and respiratory depression.

What is person‑centred dementia care?

An approach valuing dignity, individuality, personal history, meaningful activities, and holistic care.

Name three non‑pharmacological interventions for dementia.

Music therapy, cognitive stimulation therapy, exercise, art therapy, reminiscence, pet therapy.

What is deprescribing?

A planned process of reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be beneficial or may be causing harm.

What is Age Friendly Ireland?

A programme supporting communities to prepare for ageing populations through housing, transport, safety, and social connection initiatives.

What are common mental health issues in older adults?

Depression, anxiety, loneliness, dementia, carer stress.

Why are mental health issues often missed in older adults?

Symptoms may present as physical complaints; stigma reduces help‑seeking; multimorbidity complicates assessment.