Is Surgery Right for Your Older Loved One?

For people in their late 60s, 70s, and older, the effects of surgery can be just as beneficial as for younger persons, but determining surgical risk holistically is vital, according to U.S. News & World Report . Special considerations to be taken for older adults include possible frailty, chronic illness, current medications, and mental health status. Their place of residence, how they function, and their individual health goals also are essential, while watchful waiting may be preferable to invasive surgery for some individuals. Signs that clinicians should keep an eye out for include the degree of frailty, which raises the risk of complications; readmission to the hospital after leaving; and having to go to a nursing community or rehabilitation center post-surgically, says the University of Michigan's Dr. Matthew Corriere. Meanwhile, chronic medical conditions also are important considerations, because even if they are seemingly unrelated to a surgical procedure, they can affect their outcomes afterward. Because older adults frequently take multiple medications to treat various conditions, it is important to review drug regimens with each individual, including any over-the-counter medications and nutritional supplements. The Coalition for Quality in Geriatric Surgery Project has developed best practice guidelines for healthcare providers on assessing older persons throughout the operative process. Their recommendations include how to evaluate decision-making capacity; heart, lung, and functional status; frailty and nutritional status; and advice on medication management and preoperative counseling.