title: Overview of geriatric emergencies.
abstract: The elderly, aged 65 or older, are more susceptible to illness or injury due to environmental factors, physiologic deterioration and co-morbid disease. Prompt referral of patients with acute decompensation to the Emergency Department promotes resuscitation, rapid evaluation and interventions where appropriate, to improve outcomes. Common life- or limb-threatening situations are reviewed as well as co-morbidities and social issues that may complicate decision making.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA.
authors.forename: Barbara K
authors.initials: BK
authors.lastname: Richardson
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004630:Emergencies; D004638:Emergency Treatment; D006801:Humans; D009017:Morbidity