Geriatrics

ED geriatric team reduced index admissions and improved 90‑day outcomes in adults ≥75

In a multicentre randomized trial of 624 adults aged ≥75 at high ED risk, a Geriatric Team performing Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment cut index ED admissions from 56.8% to 13.7%. ED readmission and total hospitalisation rates were similar between groups. The intervention lowered 90‑day mortality and attenuated functional decline at 30 and 90 days. This GT model appears scalable to adapt ED workflows to age-related needs, though operational feasibility details matter locally. 1

Umbrella review: pharmacist-led and deprescribing interventions improve appropriateness and reduce falls

This umbrella review of 71 systematic reviews (>1.5 million participants) found pharmacist-led reviews and deprescribing consistently improved medication appropriateness. These interventions were also associated with reductions in falls and unplanned healthcare use. Multidisciplinary teams and CDSS improved prescribing processes but had inconsistent effects on mortality and quality of life. Heterogeneous review quality and methods limit confidence in some clinical outcome estimates. 2

OPTIMAge-IT: protocol for a tech-supported multidomain intervention to prevent hospital-acquired disability

OPTIMAge-IT is a pragmatic cluster-randomised trial testing a technology-supported multidomain program for frail adults ≥70 admitted to acute geriatric units. Intervention components include Vivifrail exercise, computerized cognitive training, nutritional counselling, medication review, and social engagement, continuing 12 weeks post-discharge. Primary outcome is change in Short Physical Performance Battery at discharge; feasibility, adherence, and 3–6 month outcomes are secondary. Results will inform whether such programs prevent hospital-acquired disability and are scalable in acute-care settings. 3