Geriatrics

Age alters relapse risk and disability progression on disease-modifying MS therapies

Registry analysis of 2,117 treated MS patients compared those <50 years (n=1,459) and ≥50 years (n=658). Younger patients had higher relapse risk (ARR 0.12 vs 0.09; HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.12–1.60). Older patients had greater risk of sustained EDSS progression at 12 and 24 weeks (HRs 0.76 and 0.70 favoring younger). Findings reflect real-world DMT use over mean follow-up of 6.0 versus 7.8 years and support age-informed treatment decisions. 1

App-based interventions for family caregivers show promise but inconsistent evidence

Scoping review identified 49 studies (44 unique apps) targeting caregiver burden, well-being, and mental health. Most interventions reported perceived benefits but study designs and reporting were heterogeneous. Authors call for clearer intervention components, behavioral frameworks, and more inclusive samples. Current evidence supports cautious adoption and structured evaluation when recommending apps to caregivers. 2

Many deprescribed medications are restarted within 90 days after SNF discharge

Cohort of 598 older adults discharged to SNF after hospital deprescribing found 69.7% restarted at least one medication. Of 8,734 deprescribed medications, 15.9% were restarted across 1,461 episodes; 84% remained discontinued at 90 days. Restarts concentrated during SNF stay and the first 90 days and associated with SNF restart timing and higher baseline prescribing complexity. Longer interventions and higher health literacy were linked to fewer restarts, highlighting targets for transitional-care interventions. 3