Asthma Over the Age of 65: All's Well That Ends Well

Alan P. Baptist, Paula J. Busse

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

30 Scopus citations

Abstract

Asthma in older adults (often classified as those 65 years or older) is relatively common, underdiagnosed, and suboptimally treated. It is an important health problem, as the population of the United States continues to age. Unfortunately, asthma morbidity and mortality rates are highest in this age group. Alterations in the innate and adaptive immune responses occur with aging, and contribute to pathophysiologic differences and subsequent treatment challenges. The symptoms of asthma may differ from those in younger populations, and often include fatigue. There are unique factors that can complicate asthma management among older adults, including comorbidities, menopause, caregiver roles, and depression. Pharmacologic therapies are often not as effective as in younger populations, and may have greater side effects. Spirometry, peak flow measurements, and asthma education are typically underused, and may contribute to delays in diagnosis as well as worse outcomes. There are specific strategies that health care providers can take to improve the care of older adults with asthma.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)764-773
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Volume6
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 May 2018

Keywords

  • Asthma
  • Asthma COPD overlap syndrome
  • Depression
  • Education
  • Elderly
  • Immunosenescence
  • Menopause
  • Older adults
  • Spirometry

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