People with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia account for a large percentage of emergency visits by older adults, but some of those crises could be prevented.

The VA’s efforts to reduce use of risky antipsychotic medications in its nursing homes succeeded – but use of other medications with less evidence behind them rose.

Hospices often prescribe medicines like Xanax, Haldol and Seroquel to patients to ease end-of-life symptoms, but a new study shows very wide variation in the chances patients will get these drugs.

Gun owners and non-firearm owners over 50 agree with measures to reduce firearm injury and death, including suicide, and accidental shooting. But many gun owners don’t practice safe storage even if children are in their home, the study shows.

Living through COVID-19 era has tested the mental resiliency of many older Americans; some groups appear more affected than others. 

Many older adults say the pandemic has affected their mental health, including depression, anxiety and sleep problems. But most say they would be willing to seek care if they needed it.

People with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia often receive medications for depression, anxiety, agitation, sleep problems, apathy and other behavioral issues. But combinations of three or more can be dangerous.

From opioids and antipsychotics to antidepressants and anxiety medicines, study looks at prescriptions among community-dwelling older adults with dementia.

Benzodiazepine prescribing is most intense in the South and in economically disadvantaged counties. It’s also a more common among older male primary care physicians.

University of Michigan study recommends a non-drug alternative to antipsychotic medications for dementia patients. See how the DICE model helps modify behavior.