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Janssens WH, Van Den Noortgate NJ, Mouton V, Desmet P, Van Puyvelde K, Steen E, Maere C, Van Mulders K, De Raes E, Dekoninck J, Kympers C, Werbrouck B, Delaere J, Piers RD. Opioids in geriatric units in 14 Belgian hospitals: prevalence, dosage and associated factors. Ann Med 2024; 56:2310132. [PMID: 38294956 PMCID: PMC10833115 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2310132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Adverse effects of opioids are common among older individuals, and undertreatment as well as overuse can be an issue. Epidemiological data on opioid use in older individuals are available, but scarce in hospitalized patients.Aims: The aim of this study is to examine the one-day prevalence of opioid use among older inpatients and identify the factors associated with both opioid use and dosage.Materials and methods: One-day cross-sectional study with data collected from geriatric units across 14 Belgian hospitals. The primary focus of the study is to assess the prevalence of opioid use and dosage, along with identifying associated factors. To achieve this, a multiple binary logistic regression model was fitted for opioid use, and a multiple linear regression model for opioid dose.Results: Opioids were used in 24.4% of 784 patients, of which 57.9% was treated with tramadol, 13.2% with oxycodone or morphine and 28.9% with transdermal buprenorphine or fentanyl. The odds for opioid use were 4.2 times higher in patients in orthogeriatric units compared to other patients (OR=4.2, 95% CI=2.50-7.05). The prevalence of opioid use was 34% higher in patients without dementia compared to patients with dementia (OR=0.66, 95% CI=0.46-0.95). The overall mean daily dosage was 14.07mg subcutaneous morphine equivalent. After adjustment for age, gender and dementia, dosage was only associated with type of opioid: the estimated mean opioid dose was 70% lower with tramadol (mean ratio=0,30,95% CI=0,23-0,39) and 67% lower with oxycodone and morphine (mean ratio=0,33, 95% CI=0,22-0,48) compared to transdermal buprenorphine and transdermal fentanyl.Conclusions: One in four patients received opioid treatment. It is not clear whether this reflects under- or overtreatment, but these results can serve as a benchmark for geriatric units to guide future pain management practices. The utilization of transdermal fentanyl and buprenorphine, resulting in higher doses of morphine equivalent, poses significant risks for side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Henri Janssens
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Geriatrics, AZ Oudenaarde, Oudenaarde, Belgium
| | | | - Veerle Mouton
- Department of Geriatrics, AZ Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Peter Desmet
- Department of Geriatrics, VITAZ, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
| | | | - Elke Steen
- Department of Geriatrics, AZ Sint-Lucas Gent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Caroline Maere
- Department of Geriatrics, AZ Sint-Lucas Brugge, Bruges, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | - Bart Werbrouck
- Department of Geriatrics, AZ Jan Yperman, Ypres, Belgium
| | | | - Ruth D. Piers
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
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2
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Sant AM, Portelli S, Ballard C, Bezzina-Xuereb M, Scerri C, Sultana J. Prevalence of Opioid Use in Nursing Homes Over the Last Decade: A Systematic Literature Review. J Pharm Technol 2024; 40:123-133. [PMID: 38784025 PMCID: PMC11110733 DOI: 10.1177/87551225231217903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite global concerns of an opioid epidemic, there is no systematic literature review on how frequently these drugs are used in nursing home (NH) populations, including those living with dementia. Objective: This systematic review aims to describe the prevalence and incidence of opioid use in NHs. A secondary objective is to describe the use of these drugs in a subset of NH residents, namely among persons living with dementia. Methods: A systematic literature review was carried out using MEDLINE and Scopus (PROSPERO registration number CRD42021254210). Screening of title and abstract was carried out by 2 persons independently for studies published between January 1, 2011 and May 19, 2021. The main outcomes were annual prevalence, period prevalence, and duration of opioid use. Results: From a total of 178 identified studies, 29 were considered eligible for inclusion. The annual prevalence of any opioid use among all NH residents without any selection criteria ranged from 6.3% to 50% with a median annual prevalence of 22.9% (Q25-Q75: 19.5%-30.2%), based on 17 studies. Five studies measured the annual prevalence in NH residents living with dementia, finding that this ranged from 10% to 39.6%. Conclusions: More evidence is needed quantifying opioid use in NH, especially among persons living with dementia. Given that opioid use in NH is still a problem, implementation of a pain management protocol in NH or nationally would help improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clive Ballard
- Exeter College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Charles Scerri
- Department of Pathology, The University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Janet Sultana
- Pharmacy Directorate, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
- Exeter College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Malta, Msida, Malta
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3
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Hughes GA, Inacio MC, Rowett D, Lang C, Jorissen RN, Corlis M, Sluggett JK. National Trends in Antidepressant Use in Australian Residential Aged Care Facilities (2006-2019). J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024; 25:104957. [PMID: 38432647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2024.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Antipsychotics have been the focus of reforms for improving the appropriateness of psychotropic medicine use in residential aged care facilities (RACFs). Comprehensive evaluation of antidepressant use in RACFs is required to inform policy and practice initiatives targeting psychotropic medicines. This study examined national trends in antidepressant use among older people living in RACFs from 2006 to 2019. DESIGN National repeated cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Individuals aged 65 to 105 years who were permanent, long-term (≥100 days) residents of Australian RACFs between January 2006 and December 2019 were included. METHODS Annual age- and sex-adjusted antidepressant prevalence rates and defined daily doses (DDDs) supplied per 1000 resident-days from 2006 to 2019 were determined. Age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rate ratios (aRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Poisson and negative binomial regression models. RESULTS A total of 779,659 residents of 3371 RACFs were included (786,227,380 resident-days). Overall, antidepressant use increased from 46.1% (95% CI, 45.9-46.4) in 2006 to 58.5% (95% CI, 58.3-58.8) of residents in 2019 (aRR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.02-1.02). Mirtazapine use increased from 8.4% (95% CI, 8.2-8.5) to 20.9% (95% CI, 20.7-21.1) from 2006 to 2019 (aRR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.07-1.07). Antidepressant use increased from 350.3 (95% CI, 347.6-353.1) to 506.0 (95% CI, 502.8-509.3) DDDs/1000 resident-days (aRR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.03-1.03), with mirtazapine utilization increasing by 6% annually (aRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.06-1.06). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This nationwide study identified a substantial increase in antidepressant use among residents of Australian RACFs, largely driven by mirtazapine. With nearly 3 in every 5 residents treated with an antidepressant in 2019, findings highlight potential off-label use and suggest that interventions to optimize care are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina A Hughes
- University of South Australia, UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Registry of Senior Australians, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Maria C Inacio
- Registry of Senior Australians, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; University of South Australia, UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Debra Rowett
- University of South Australia, UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, Drug and Therapeutics Information Service, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Catherine Lang
- Registry of Senior Australians, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert N Jorissen
- Registry of Senior Australians, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; University of South Australia, UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Flinders University, College of Medicine and Public Health, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Megan Corlis
- Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation SA Branch, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Janet K Sluggett
- Registry of Senior Australians, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; University of South Australia, UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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4
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Jazbar J, Locatelli I, Kos M. Sedative load and anticholinergic burden among older adults in Slovenia over a decade: Potential for optimization of pharmacotherapy. ACTA PHARMACEUTICA (ZAGREB, CROATIA) 2024; 74:329-341. [PMID: 38815203 DOI: 10.2478/acph-2024-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the 10-year trend in the sedative and anticholinergic burden among older adults in Slovenia, with the aim of identifying opportunities to optimize pharmacotherapy in this population. A retrospective drug utilization analysis was conducted based on a national anonymized database of dispensed prescriptions from 2009 to 2019. The study employed the sedative load model and the anticholinergic cognitive burden scale to assess the sedative and anti cholinergic burden, respectively. The findings indicate that in 2019, 45.6 % and 40.8 % of older adults (≥ 65 years) used sedative and anticholinergic medications, respectively. A high sedative load and a clinically significant anticholinergic burden were observed in a considerable proportion of older adults (13.2 % and 11.2 %, respectively, in 2019). The age-standardized prevalence of sedative load and anti-cholinergic burden significantly decreased over the 10-year study period by 5.6 % and 1.7 %, respectively (absolute difference), while the prevalence of clinically significant anticholinergic burden remained stable. Notably, the age groups 85-89 years and above 90 years had an increase in the proportion of individuals with a clinically significant anticholinergic burden over the years. These results emphasize the need for targeted interventions, particularly in the oldest age groups, to promote safe and effective medication use among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janja Jazbar
- 1University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Igor Locatelli
- 1University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mitja Kos
- 1University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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5
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Roitto HM, Aalto UL, Öhman H, Saarela RKT, Kautiainen H, Salminen K, Pitkälä KH. Association of medication use with falls and mortality among long-term care residents: a longitudinal cohort study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:375. [PMID: 37331981 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04096-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls in long-term care are common. The aim of our study was to explore how medication use is associated with incidence of falls, related consequences, and all-cause mortality among long-term care residents. METHODS Five hundred thirty two long-term care residents aged 65 years or older participated in this longitudinal cohort study in 2018-2021. Data on medication use were retrieved from medical records. Polypharmacy was defined as use of 5-10 medications and excessive polypharmacy as use of > 10 medications. The numbers of falls, injuries, fractures, and hospitalizations were collected from medical records over 12 months following baseline assessment. Participants were followed for three years for mortality. All analysis were adjusted for age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Clinical dementia rating, and mobility. RESULTS A total of 606 falls occurred during the follow-up. Falls increased significantly with the number of medications used. Fall rate was 0.84/person-years (pyrs) (95% CI 0.56 to 1.13) for the non-polypharmacy group, 1.13/pyrs (95% CI 1.01 to 1.26) for the polypharmacy group, and 1.84/pyrs (95% CI 1.60 to 2.09) for the excessive polypharmacy group. Incidence rate ratio for falls was 1.73 (95% CI 1.44 to 2.10) for opioids, 1.48 (95% CI 1.23 to 1.78) for anticholinergic medication, 0.93 (95% CI 0.70 to 1.25) for psychotropics, and 0.91 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.08) for Alzheimer medication. The three-year follow-up showed significant differences in mortality between the groups, the lowest survival rate (25%) being in the excessive polypharmacy group. CONCLUSION Polypharmacy, opioid and anticholinergic medication use predicted incidence of falls in long-term care. The use of more than 10 medications predicted all-cause mortality. Special attention should be paid to both number and type of medications when prescribing in long-term care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna-Maria Roitto
- Department of Geriatrics, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Population Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland.
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Ulla L Aalto
- Department of Geriatrics, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Öhman
- Department of Geriatrics, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Hannu Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Karoliina Salminen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kaisu H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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6
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Rantsi M, Kortelainen L, Hyttinen V, Jyrkkä J, Kankaanpää E. Trends in the use of psychotropics in older people with dementia: interrupted time series of Finnish clinical guidelines of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Age Ageing 2023; 52:afad094. [PMID: 37366328 PMCID: PMC10294559 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afad094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 90% of people with dementia experience behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) as part of their illness. Psychotropics are not recommended as the first-line treatment of BPSD because older people are more prone to adverse reactions. In this study, we evaluate the impact of the Finnish clinical guidelines of BPSD (published in 2017) on psychotropic use in people with dementia. METHODS This study is based on Finnish Prescription Register data from 2009 to 2020. The data included all community-dwelling Finnish people aged ≥65 and who had anti-dementia medication purchases (n = 217,778). We used three-phased interrupted time series design to evaluate the changes in levels and trends of monthly (n = 144) psychotropic user rates compared with the predicted trends. In addition, we evaluated the changes in levels and trends of monthly new psychotropic user rates. RESULTS The level of monthly psychotropic user rate decreased non-significantly during the intervention period (β -0.057, P = 0.853), and during the post-intervention period, there was an increase in the level (β 0.443, P = 0.091) and slope (β 0.199, P = 0.198), but not statistically significant. The level of monthly new psychotropic user rate (β -0.009, P = 0.949) during the intervention period and the level (β 0.044, P = 0.714) and slope (β 0.021, P = 0.705) during the post-intervention period were almost unchanged. CONCLUSIONS Results may indicate possible challenges in deprescribing and better adherence to the guidelines at the beginning of BPSD treatment. Further research into the barriers to implement BPSD guidelines and the availability of non-pharmacological treatments is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mervi Rantsi
- Address correspondence to: Mervi Rantsi. Tel: +358 46 920 2963.
| | - Lauri Kortelainen
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Virva Hyttinen
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Johanna Jyrkkä
- Information and Development Services Unit, Finnish Medicines Agency, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eila Kankaanpää
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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Dunbar P, McMahon M, Durkan C, Walsh KA, Keyes LM. Incidence and type of restrictive practice use in nursing homes in Ireland. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:802. [PMID: 36243703 PMCID: PMC9569185 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03450-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Use of restrictive practices (RP) in care settings may sometimes be warranted but can also conflict with human rights. Research to date has focused primarily on physical and chemical RP, however other forms are also used. Better understanding of practice can inform RP reduction. This study describes the incidence of all types of RP use reported from nursing homes in Ireland. Methods RP notifications from nursing homes reported in 2020 were extracted from the Database of Statutory Notifications from Social Care in Ireland. The primary outcome measurement was the national incidence of use (frequency of RP/occupancy per 1000 residents) of categories and types of RP. Secondary outcome measurements such as percentage of facilities reporting use and quarterly median incidence of use in these facilities were calculated. Results Seventy thousand six hundred sixty-three RP uses were notified from 608 facilities (33,219 beds). National incidence of RP use per 1000 residents was, all categories: 2465.1, environmental: 1324.5, physical: 922.5, chemical: 141.1; ‘other’: 77.0. The most frequently used RPs per category were, environmental: door locks; physical: bedrails; chemical (where drug specified): antipsychotics; ‘other’: privacy. 90.5% of nursing homes reported using at least one type of RP in the 12-month period. Quarterly incidence of any RP use in these facilities was median 1.642 (IQR: 0.018 to 18.608) per bed. Conclusions Nursing homes in Ireland regularly use RP; only 9.5% reported no RP use in the 12-month period. A wide variety of types of RP were reported. Environmental and ‘other’ (largely psychosocial) RP contributed notably to total RP use and warrant attention alongside the traditional focus on physical and chemical RP. Policy implications include the need for more comprehensive RP definitions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-03450-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Dunbar
- Health Information and Quality Authority, Unit 1301, City Gate, Mahon, Cork, T12 Y2XT, Ireland
| | - Martin McMahon
- Health Information and Quality Authority, Unit 1301, City Gate, Mahon, Cork, T12 Y2XT, Ireland
| | - Ciara Durkan
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kieran A Walsh
- Health Information and Quality Authority, Unit 1301, City Gate, Mahon, Cork, T12 Y2XT, Ireland
| | - Laura M Keyes
- Health Information and Quality Authority, Unit 1301, City Gate, Mahon, Cork, T12 Y2XT, Ireland.
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8
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Iacono A, Campitelli MA, Bronskill SE, Hogan DB, Iaboni A, Maclagan LC, Gomes T, Tadrous M, Evans C, Gruneir A, Guan Q, Hadjistavropoulos T, Cotton C, Gill SS, Seitz DP, Ho J, Maxwell CJ. Correlates of Opioid Use Among Ontario Long-Term Care Residents and Variation by Pain Frequency and Intensity: A Cross-sectional Analysis. Drugs Aging 2022; 39:811-827. [PMID: 35976489 PMCID: PMC9381389 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-022-00972-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Chronic non-cancer pain is common among older residents of long-term care (LTC) homes and often poorly recognized and treated. With heightened concerns regarding opioid prescribing in recent years, it is important to examine the current prevalence of opioid use and its association with resident characteristics to help identify those potentially at risk of medication harms as well as suboptimal pain management. Objectives The aims were to estimate the prevalence and correlates of opioid use among non-palliative LTC residents and explore variation in opioid prevalence and correlates across strata defined by pain frequency and intensity. Methods We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study of all older (aged > 65 years) LTC residents (excluding those with cancer or receiving palliative care) in Ontario, Canada during 2018–2019. Health administrative databases were linked with standardized clinical assessment data to ascertain residents’ health and pain characteristics and their opioid and other medication use. Modified Poisson regression models estimated unadjusted and adjusted associations between residents’ characteristics and opioid use, overall and across strata capturing pain frequency and intensity. Results Among 75,020 eligible residents (mean age 85.1 years; 70% female), the prevalence of opioid use was 18.5% and pain was 29.4%. Opioid use ranged from 12.2% for residents with no current pain to 55.7% for those with severe pain. In adjusted models, residents newly admitted to LTC (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57–0.62) and with moderate to severe cognitive impairment (aRR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.66–0.72) or dementia (aRR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.74–0.79) were significantly less likely to receive an opioid, whereas residents with select conditions (e.g., arthritis, aRR = 1.37, 95% CI 1.32–1.41) and concurrently using gabapentinoids (aRR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.74–1.86), benzodiazepines (aRR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.28–1.38), or antidepressants (aRR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.27–1.35) were significantly more likely to receive an opioid. The associations observed for residents newly admitted, with dementia, and concurrently using gabapentinoids, benzodiazepines, or antidepressants were largely consistent across all pain strata. Conclusions Our findings describe resident sub-groups at potentially higher risk of adverse health outcomes in relation to both opioid use and non-use. LTC clinical and policy changes informed by research are required to ensure the appropriate recognition and management of non-cancer pain in this setting. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40266-022-00972-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Iacono
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | | | - Susan E Bronskill
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David B Hogan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Andrea Iaboni
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Tara Gomes
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Unity Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mina Tadrous
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Charity Evans
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Andrea Gruneir
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Qi Guan
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas Hadjistavropoulos
- Department of Psychology and Centre on Aging and Health, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Cecilia Cotton
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Sudeep S Gill
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Dallas P Seitz
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Joanne Ho
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Schlegel Research Institute for Aging, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Colleen J Maxwell
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada. .,ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
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Ulla L A, Mervi R, Anna-Liisa J, Hannu K, Kaisu H P. The effect of educational intervention on use of psychotropics in defined daily doses and related costs - a randomized controlled trial. Scand J Prim Health Care 2022; 40:246-252. [PMID: 35546060 PMCID: PMC9397433 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2022.2074055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of an educational intervention of nursing staff on change in psychotropic use and related costs among older long-term care residents. DESIGN A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled intervention study with 12 months of follow-up. SETTING Assisted living facilities in Helsinki, Finland. SUBJECTS Older (≥65 years) residents (N = 227) living in assisted living facility wards (N = 20) in Helsinki in 2011. INTERVENTION The wards were randomized into two groups. In one group, the nursing staff received training on appropriate medication therapy and guidance to recognize potentially harmful medications and adverse effects (intervention group); in the other group, the nursing staff did not receive any additional training (control group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Change of psychotropic use counted as relative proportions of WHO ATC-defined daily doses (rDDDs) among older long-term care residents. In addition, the change in drug costs was considered. Comparable assessments were performed at 0, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS A significant decrease in both rDDDs and the cost of psychotropics was observed in the intervention group at 6 months follow-up. However, at 12 months, the difference between the intervention and control group had diminished. CONCLUSIONS Educational training can be effective in reducing the doses and costs of psychotropics. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether long-term effects can also be achieved by various educational interventions. REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN 12611001078943 KEY POINTSWe explored the effect of staff training on psychotropic use and associated costs among older long-term care residents.Educational training of nursing staff was beneficial as regards the actual drug doses of psychotropics, and cost savings in psychotropic medication were achieved.Educational training was efficient in the short-term, but further research is warranted to achieve long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalto Ulla L
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of General Practice, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- CONTACT Ulla L Aalto Dept of Social Services and Health Care, Home-care services, PO BOX 72654, City of Helsinki, 00099, Finland
| | - Rantsi Mervi
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juola Anna-Liisa
- Department of General Practice, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kautiainen Hannu
- Department of General Practice, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pitkälä Kaisu H
- Department of General Practice, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki University Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki, Finland
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Smith TO, Harvey K. Psychometric properties of pain measurements for people living with dementia: a COSMIN systematic review. Eur Geriatr Med 2022; 13:1029-1045. [PMID: 35622210 PMCID: PMC9553783 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-022-00655-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Detecting pain in older people with dementia is challenging. Consequentially, pain is often under-reported and under-treated. There remains uncertainty over what measures should be promoted for use to assess pain in this population. The purpose of this paper is to answer this question. METHODS A search of clinical trials registered on the ClinicalTrial.gov and ISRCTN registries was performed to identify outcome measures used to assess pain in people with dementia. Following this, a systematic review of published and unpublished databases was performed to 01 November 2021 to identify papers assessing the psychometric properties of these identified measures. Each paper and measure was assessed against the COSMIN checklist. A best evidence synthesis analysis was performed to assess the level of evidence for each measure. RESULTS From 188 clinical trials, nine outcome measures were identified. These included: Abbey Pain Scale, ALGOPLUS, DOLOPLUS-2, Facial Action Coding System, MOBID-2, self-reported pain through the NRS or VAS/thermometer or Philadelphia Geriatric Pain Intensity Scale, PACSLAC/PACSLAC-2, Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD), and Checklist for non-verbal pain behavior (CNPI). From these, 51 papers (5924 people with dementia) were identified assessing the psychometric properties of these measures. From these, there was strong- and moderate-level evidence to support the use of the facial action coding system, PACSLAC and PACSLAC-II, CNPI, DOLOPLUS-2, ALGOPLUS, MOBID, and MOBID-2 tools for the assessment of pain with people living with dementia. CONCLUSION Whilst these reflect measurement tools used in research, further consideration on how these reflect clinical practice should be considered. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42021282032.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby O Smith
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Karmen Harvey
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
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Hamina A, Muller AE, Clausen T, Skurtveit S, Hesse M, Tjagvad C, Thylstrup B, Odsbu I, Zoega H, Jónsdóttir HL, Taipale H. Prescription opioids among older adults: ten years of data across five countries. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:429. [PMID: 35578167 PMCID: PMC9112605 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03125-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid use has increased globally in the recent decade. Although pain remains a significant problem among older adults, susceptibility to opioid-related harms highlights the importance of careful opioid therapy monitoring on individual and societal levels. We aimed to describe the trends of prescription opioid utilisation among residents aged ≥65 in all Nordic countries during 2009-2018. METHODS We conducted cross-sectional measurements of opioid utilisation in 2009-2018 from nationwide registers of dispensed drugs in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. The measures included annual opioid prevalence, defined daily doses (DDDs) per 1000 inhabitants per day (DIDs), and morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) per user per day. RESULTS From 2009 to 2018, an average of 808,584 of adults aged ≥65 used opioids yearly in all five countries; an average annual prevalence of 17.0%. During this time period, the prevalence decreased in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden due to declining codeine and/or tramadol use. Iceland had the highest opioid prevalence in 2009 (30.2%), increasing to 31.7% in 2018. In the same period, DIDs decreased in all five countries, and ranged from 28.3 in Finland to 58.5 in Denmark in 2009, and from 23.0 in Finland to 54.6 in Iceland in 2018. MMEs/user/day ranged from 4.4 in Iceland to 19.6 in Denmark in 2009, and from 4.6 in Iceland to 18.8 in Denmark in 2018. In Finland, Norway, and Sweden, MMEs/user/day increased from 2009 to 2018, mainly due to increasing oxycodone utilisation. CONCLUSIONS The stable or decreasing opioid utilisation prevalence among a majority of older adults across the Nordic countries coincides with an increase in treatment intensity in 2009-2018. We found large cross-national differences despite similarities across the countries' cultures and healthcare systems. For the aged population, national efforts should be placed on improving pain management and monitoring future trends of especially oxycodone utilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Hamina
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, 0218 Oslo, Norway ,grid.9668.10000 0001 0726 2490School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - A. E. Muller
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Division of Reviews and Health Technology Assessments, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - T. Clausen
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, 0218 Oslo, Norway
| | - S. Skurtveit
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, 0218 Oslo, Norway ,grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Department of Mental Disorders, Division of Mental and Physical Health, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - M. Hesse
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - C. Tjagvad
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research (SERAF), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, 0218 Oslo, Norway
| | - B. Thylstrup
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - I. Odsbu
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Department of Mental Disorders, Division of Mental and Physical Health, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - H. Zoega
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Centre for Big Data Research in Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia ,grid.14013.370000 0004 0640 0021Centre of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - H. L. Jónsdóttir
- grid.14013.370000 0004 0640 0021Centre of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland ,grid.14013.370000 0004 0640 0021Faculty of Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - H. Taipale
- grid.9668.10000 0001 0726 2490School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.466951.90000 0004 0391 2072Niuvanniemi Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
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12
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Resnick B, Galik E, Boltz M. Impact of Function-Focused Care on Psychotropic Medications and Opioid Use Among Assisted Living Residents. Sr Care Pharm 2022; 37:87-95. [PMID: 35197151 DOI: 10.4140/tcp.n.2022.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective To test the impact of the Function Focused Care Intervention on use of psychotropic medications and opioids over a 12-month period in assisted living residents. Setting The study included 794 residents from 85 general assisted living communities in the United States. The general assisted living communities that had at least 25 beds and 10 residents per community were enrolled. Results There was no significant difference in the treatment groups regarding medication use except for a decrease in opioid use at 4 months (P = 0.03). In the full sample there was a significant increase in use of benzodiazepines from baseline to 12 months (P = 0.04) and an increase in the use of antipsychotics between 4 and 12 months (P = 0.04). Conclusion Function-focused care does not increase the need for psychotropic medications or opioids and may help decrease the need for opioids. Further, we recommend the involvement of a pharmacy consultant to provide oversight and medication reviews for all residents in assisted living to consider deprescribing, if possible, for potentially unnecessary use of psychotropic medications or opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marie Boltz
- 2Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
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13
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Sultan A. Aging with drug use: Theorizing intersectionally with material gerontology and critical drug studies. J Aging Stud 2022; 60:100990. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2021.100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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14
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Dowd LA, Cross AJ, Veal F, Ooi CE, Bell JS. A Systematic Review of Interventions to Improve Analgesic Use and Appropriateness in Long-Term Care Facilities. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2021; 23:33-43.e3. [PMID: 34710365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To systematically review the effectiveness of interventions to improve analgesic use and appropriateness in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). DESIGN Systematic review. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL Plus were searched from inception to June 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled and uncontrolled prospective interventions that included analgesic optimization, and reported postintervention change in analgesic use or appropriateness in LTCFs were included. METHODS Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed independently by 2 review authors. RESULTS Eight cluster RCTs, 2 controlled, and 6 uncontrolled studies comprising 9056 residents across 9 countries were included. The 16 interventions included education (n = 13), decision support (n = 7), system modifications (n = 6), and/or medication review (n = 3). Six interventions changed analgesic use or appropriateness, all of which included prescribers, 5 involved multidisciplinary collaboration, and 5 included a component of education. Education alone changed analgesic use and appropriateness in 1 study. Decision support was effective when combined with education in 3 interventions. Overall, 13 studies reported analgesic optimization as part of pain management interventions and 3 studies focused on medication optimization. Two pain management interventions reduced the percentage of residents reporting pain not receiving analgesics by 50% to 60% (P = .03 and P < .001, respectively), and 1 improved analgesic appropriateness (P = .03). One reduced nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (P < .001) and another resulted in 3-fold higher odds of opioid prescription in advanced dementia [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-8.7]. One medication optimization intervention reduced NSAID prescription (P = .036), and another reduced as-needed opioid (95% CI 8.6-13.8) and NSAID prescription (95% CI 1.6-4.2). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Interventions involving prescribers and enhanced roles for pharmacists and nurses, with a component of education, are most effective at changing analgesic use or appropriateness. Interventions combining education and decision support are also promising. Medication review interventions can change analgesic prescription, although there is currently minimal evidence in relation to possible corresponding improvements in resident-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Dowd
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety (CMUS), Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Amanda J Cross
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety (CMUS), Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Felicity Veal
- Unit for Medication Outcomes Research & Education (UMORE), School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Choon Ean Ooi
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety (CMUS), Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - J Simon Bell
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety (CMUS), Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence in Frailty and Healthy Ageing, Adelaide, South Australia
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15
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Lamppu PJ, Laakkonen ML, Finne-Soveri H, Kautiainen H, Laurila JV, Pitkälä KH. Training Staff in Long-Term Care Facilities-Effects on Residents' Symptoms, Psychological Well-Being, and Proxy Satisfaction. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:e4-e12. [PMID: 33794303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Long-term care facility (LTCF) residents have unmet needs in end-of-life and symptom care. OBJECTIVES This study examines the effects of an end-of-life care staff training intervention on LTCF residents' pain, symptoms, and psychological well-being and their proxies' satisfaction with care. METHODS We report findings from a single-blind, cluster randomized controlled trial featuring 324 residents with end-of-life care needs in 20 LTCF wards in Helsinki. The training intervention included four 4-hour educational workshops on palliative care principles (advance care planning, adverse effects of hospitalizations, symptom management, communication, supporting proxies, challenging situations). Training was provided to all members of staff in small groups. Education was based on constructive learning methods and included participants' own resident cases, role-plays, and small-group discussions. During a 12-month follow-up we assessed residents' symptoms with the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS), pain with the PAINAD instrument and psychological well-being using a PWB questionnaire. Proxies' satisfaction with care was assessed using the SWC-EOLD. RESULTS The change in ESAS symptom scores from baseline to 6 months favored the intervention group compared with the control group. However, the finding was diluted at 12 months. PAINAD, PWB, and SWC-EOLD scores remained unaffected by the intervention. All follow-up analyses were adjusted for age, gender, do-not-resuscitate order, need for help, and clustering. CONCLUSION Our rigorous randomized controlled trial on palliative care training intervention demonstrated mild effects on residents' symptoms and no robust effects on psychological well-being or on proxies' satisfaction with care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauli J Lamppu
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Marja-Liisa Laakkonen
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Hannu Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jouko V Laurila
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Kaisu H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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16
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Nursing home (NH) residents with dementia is exposed to high rates of psychotropic prescriptions. Our objectives were to: (1) pool the prevalence estimates of psychotropic polypharmacy from the existing literature and (2) examine potentially influential factors that are related to a higher or lower prevalence. DESIGN Meta-analysis of data collected from randomized trials, quasi-experimental, prospective or retrospective cohort, and cross-sectional studies. English-language searches of PubMed and PsycINFO were completed by November 2020. Included studies reported prevalence estimates of psychotropic polypharmacy (i.e. defined as either two-or-more or three-or-more medications concurrently) in NH residents with dementia. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS NH residents with dementia. MEASUREMENTS Random-effects models were used to pool the prevalence of psychotropic polypharmacy in NH residents with dementia across studies. Estimates were provided for both two-or-more and three-or-more concurrent medications. Heterogeneity and publication bias were measured. Meta-regression examined the influence of the percentage of the sample who were male, mean age of the sample, geographic region (continent), sample size, and study year on the prevalence of psychotropic polypharmacy. RESULTS Twenty-five unique articles were included comprising medications data from 92,370 NH residents with dementia in 12 countries. One-in-three (33%, [95% CI: 28%, 39%]) NH residents with dementia received two-or-more psychotropic medications concurrently. One-in-eight (13%, [95% CI: 10%, 17%]) received three-or-more psychotropic medications concurrently. Estimates were highly variable across both definitions of psychotropic polypharmacy (p < 0.001). Among study-level demographics, geographic region, sample size, or study year, only male sex was associated with greater use of two-or-more psychotropic medications (Unadjusted OR = 1.02, p = 0.006; Adjusted OR = 1.04, p = 0.07). CONCLUSIONS Psychotropic polypharmacy is common among NH residents with dementia. Identifying the causes of utilization and the effects on resident health and well-being should be prioritized by federal entities seeking to improve NH quality.
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17
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La Frenais F, Vickerstaff V, Cooper C, Livingston G, Stone P, Sampson EL. Factors influencing prescription and administration of analgesic medication: A longitudinal study of people with dementia living in care homes. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 36:1354-1361. [PMID: 33719098 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To (1) describe the prescription and administration of regular and 'as required' (pro re nata [PRN]) analgesics in English care homes, (2) investigate individual and care home factors associated with analgesic use. METHODS We collected data (2014-2016) at 0-, 4-, and 12-months nested in a longitudinal cohort study of 86 English care homes about residents with diagnosed or probable dementia. We describe analgesics prescribed as regular or PRN medication, by class, and PRN administration. We explored individual differences (sociodemographic; dementia severity [Clinical Dementia Rating]), and care home differences (type; ownership; number of beds; dementia-registered/specialist; Care Quality Commission rating) in prescription and administration using multilevel regression models. RESULTS Data were available for 1483 residents. At baseline, 967 residents (67.9%) were prescribed analgesics: 426 residents (28.7%) prescribed regular analgesics and 670 (45.2%) prescribed PRN. Paracetamol was the most prescribed analgesic (56.7%), with PRN prescriptions more common than regular (39.7% vs. 16.6%). Across all study visits, 344 residents (mean = 41.9%) with a PRN prescription did not receive any analgesic in the 2 weeks prior to data collection. Male residents and those with severe dementia received fewer analgesics. Care homes differences in PRN administration were not explained by the modelled variables. CONCLUSIONS Pain management in English care homes largely relies on PRN paracetamol that is frequently prescribed but infrequently administered. Care homes differ in how often they administer PRN analgesics. Some care home residents particularly those with more severe dementia are likely to have untreated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca La Frenais
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Vickerstaff
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK
| | - Claudia Cooper
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St. Pancras Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St. Pancras Hospital, London, UK
| | - Patrick Stone
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth L Sampson
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK
- Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust Liaison Team, North Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK
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18
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Lehti TE, Rinkinen MO, Aalto U, Roitto HM, Knuutila M, Öhman H, Kautiainen H, Karppinen H, Tilvis R, Strandberg T, Pitkälä KH. Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and Analgesic Treatment Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Changes from 1999 to 2019. Drugs Aging 2021; 38:931-937. [PMID: 34386937 PMCID: PMC8484214 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-021-00888-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Pain is undertreated in older populations. At the same time, increased use of opioids is of concern in the Western world. Aims We sought to analyze temporal trends in musculoskeletal pain and prescribed analgesic treatment among community-dwelling people aged 75–95 years using cross-sectional cohort data spanning 20 years. Methods The Helsinki Aging Study recruited random samples of people aged 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 years in 1999, 2009, and 2019. In total, 5707 community-dwelling persons participated in the study. The participants reported their medical diagnoses, regular prescription medications, and the presence of back pain or joint pain within the last 2 weeks (never, sometimes, or daily). We compared analgesic use among participants reporting and not reporting musculoskeletal pain in 1999, 2009, and 2019. Results Of the participants, 57–61% reported intermittent or daily musculoskeletal pain. The percentage receiving a prescribed daily analgesic increased from 9% in 1999 to 16% in 2019. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) decreased from 1999 to 2019, while the use of paracetamol increased from 2 to 11%. Opioids were taken by 2% in 1999 and 3% in 2019. Of those reporting daily musculoskeletal pain, 20%, 35%, and 32% received regular pain medication in 1999, 2009, and 2019, respectively. Conclusions Pain remains undertreated in the community-dwelling older population, although the use of regular prescribed analgesics increased between 1999 and 2019. The use of NSAIDs has decreased, while the use of paracetamol has increased. Daily opioid use has remained modest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuuli Elina Lehti
- Primary Health Care Unit, Helsinki University Hospital, Ilkantie 10 B 22, 00400, Helsinki, Finland. .,Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - M-O Rinkinen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - U Aalto
- Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H M Roitto
- Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Knuutila
- Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Öhman
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Karppinen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R Tilvis
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Strandberg
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Primary Health Care Unit, Helsinki University Hospital, Ilkantie 10 B 22, 00400, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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19
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Lamppu PJ, Finne-Soveri H, Kautiainen H, Laakkonen ML, Laurila JV, Pitkälä KH. Effects of Staff Training on Nursing Home Residents' End-Of-Life Care: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2021; 22:1699-1705.e1. [PMID: 34133971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This trial examines the effects of end-of-life training on long-term care facility (LTCF) residents' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and use and costs of hospital services. DESIGN A single-blind, cluster randomized (at facility level) controlled trial (RCT). Our training intervention included 4 small-group 4-hour educational sessions on the principles of palliative and end-of-life care (advance care planning, adverse effects of hospitalizations, symptom management, communication, supporting proxies, challenging situations). Training was provided to all members of staff. Education was based on constructive learning methods and included resident cases, role-plays, and small-group discussions. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We recruited 324 residents with possible need for end-of-life care due to advanced illness from 20 LTCF wards in Helsinki. METHODS Primary outcome measures were HRQoL and hospital inpatient days per person-year during a 2-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes were number of emergency department visits and cost of all hospital services. RESULTS HRQoL according to the 15-Dimensional Health-Related Quality-of-Life Instrument declined in both groups, and no difference was present in the changes between the groups (P for group .75, adjusted for age, sex, do-not-resuscitate orders, need for help, and clustering). Neither the number of hospital inpatient days (1.87 vs 0.81 per person-year) nor the number of emergency department visits differed significantly between intervention and control groups (P for group .41). The total hospital costs were similar in the intervention and control groups. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our rigorous RCT on end-of-life care training intervention demonstrated no effects on residents' HRQoL or their use of hospitals. Unsupported training interventions alone might be insufficient to produce meaningful care quality improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauli J Lamppu
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Hannu Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marja-Liisa Laakkonen
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jouko V Laurila
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Kaisu H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki University Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki, Finland.
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20
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Mörttinen-Vallius H, Hartikainen S, Seinelä L, Jämsen E. The prevalence of and exact indications for daily opioid use among aged home care clients with and without dementia. Aging Clin Exp Res 2021; 33:1239-1247. [PMID: 32613548 PMCID: PMC8081682 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-020-01627-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background The increasing trend of opioid use for non-malignant pain among older people has raised concerns about whether opioids are used for appropriate indications. On the other hand, pain in patients with dementia may be undertreated. Aims To examine the prevalence of and indications for daily opioid use among home care clients, and to determine opioid use differs between those with and without dementia. Methods All home care clients aged ≥ 65 years using opioids daily (n = 282) were identified based on their first Resident Assessment Instrument–Home Care assessment in 2014. Exact indications for opioid use, the opioid substance used, the median duration of use, and changes in opioid medication within 12 months from study entry were obtained from the electronic medical records. Results The prevalence of daily opioid use was 9.3%, and the median duration of use before the study entry was 357 days (interquartile range 126–719 days). The majority of clients continued to use opioids daily during the follow-up year. Vertebral osteoporotic fractures (21.6%), degenerative spinal disorders (20.9%), and osteoarthritis (20.6%) were the most common indications for opioid use. Buprenorphine was used more frequently in persons with dementia, but otherwise there were no differences between those with and without dementia. Discussion and conclusions Home care clients use opioids for long periods of time for pain related mostly to musculoskeletal disorders, although the effectiveness of long-term opioid use is not clear. The lack of effective or suitable options for management of pain might explain the situation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sirpa Hartikainen
- Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Lauri Seinelä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, 33014, Tampere, Finland
| | - Esa Jämsen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology and Gerontology Research Centre GEREC, Tampere University, 33014, Tampere, Finland
- Tampere University Hospital, P. O. Box 2000, 33521, Tampere, Finland
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21
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Öhman HR, Karppinen H, Lehti TE, Knuutila MT, Tilvis R, Strandberg T, Kautiainen H, Pitkala KH. Secular trends in functional abilities, health and psychological well-being among community-dwelling 75- to 95-year-old cohorts over three decades in Helsinki, Finland. Scand J Public Health 2021; 50:524-531. [PMID: 33899588 PMCID: PMC9152590 DOI: 10.1177/14034948211007688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Life expectancy has increased markedly in the past
decades. Thus, it is of great importance to understand how people are ageing and
if the trajectories of health and disability are changing over time. This study
aimed to examine trends in functional abilities and health in independent
cohorts of people aged 75–95 over three decades. Methods: This
Helsinki Ageing Study consists of repeated cross-sectional postal surveys
examining independent cohorts of old people (75, 80, 85 and 90+ years old). This
study combined data from four waves (1989, 1999, 2009 and 2019).
Results: In the most recent wave, there was an increase in
the portion of participants who were able to walk outdoors easily (75-year-olds
p=0.03, 80-year-olds p=0.002, 85-year-olds
p<0.001; p for linearity for the study
year effect, all adjusted for sex). Fewer people in the youngest age group
(75-year-olds) needed daily help from another person in 2019 compared to the
earlier waves (p=0.02 for linearity for the study year). Over
the past three decades, the proportions of self-reported good mobility have
risen 8.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.3–15.1) in 75-year-olds, 11.7% (95%
CI 3.9–19.6) in 80-year-olds and 20.1% (95% CI 10.7–29.4) in 85-year-olds, after
adjusting for sex. Furthermore, in 2019, more people rated their health as good
and scored better in psychological well-being than in the previous waves among
75-, 80- and 85-year-olds. However, no improvements were found among
90+-year-olds in any of these variables. Conclusions: People between 75
and 85 years old are presently feeling and functioning better than their
predecessors. This may be an important objective for both economics and
health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna R Öhman
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Helena Karppinen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuuli E Lehti
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland.,Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mia T Knuutila
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland.,Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Reijo Tilvis
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo Strandberg
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Hannu Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kaisu H Pitkala
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland
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22
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Jensen-Dahm C, Christensen AN, Gasse C, Waldemar G. The Use of Opioids and Antipsychotics in Elderly with Dementia - Have Opioids Replaced Antipsychotics in Treating Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia? J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 73:259-267. [PMID: 31771062 PMCID: PMC7029326 DOI: 10.3233/jad-190787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background: Opioids are used with increasing frequency. Elderly with dementia are prescribed opioids more frequent than elderly without. One possible explanation is that opioids may be used not only to treat pain but also behavioral symptoms. Objective: To test the hypothesis that strong opioid use, especially transdermal formulations, had increased, especially in elderly with dementia, in parallel with a decrease in antipsychotic use. Methods: Population-based cross-sectional study conducted using nationwide Danish registers with data on Denmark’s entire elderly population age ≥65 (2000: n = 802,106; 2015: n = 1,056,476). The registers were used to identify elderly with and without dementia and filled prescriptions for opioids and antipsychotics. Annual prevalence of opioid and antipsychotic use from 2000–2015 was calculated. Results: Prevalence of opioid use increased by 35% (24.2 to 32.5%) among elderly with dementia and by 13% among elderly without (14.9 to 16.8%) from 2000–2015. The disproportionate increase in opioid use among elderly with dementia was mainly driven by an increase in strong opioids (dementia: 11.7 to 23.1%; without dementia: 5.9 to 7.4%). Use of antipsychotics decreased during the same period (dementia: 31.3 to 19.3%; no dementia: 4.5 to 2.7%). Conclusion: From 2000–2015, use of opioids among the elderly increased with a disproportionately higher increase among elderly with dementia. The parallel decrease in the use of antipsychotics may suggest that opioids to some extent have replaced antipsychotics in managing behavioral symptoms, despite safety concerns and lack of evidence for effect of opioids. Future research should focus on potential risks associated with increased opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Jensen-Dahm
- Department of Neurology, Danish Dementia Research Centre (DDRC), Rigshospitalet - University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ane Nørgaard Christensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Dementia Research Centre (DDRC), Rigshospitalet - University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christiane Gasse
- Depression and Anxiety/Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital Psychiatry, Aarhus N, Denmark.,National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gunhild Waldemar
- Department of Neurology, Danish Dementia Research Centre (DDRC), Rigshospitalet - University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Achterberg WP, Erdal A, Husebo BS, Kunz M, Lautenbacher S. Are Chronic Pain Patients with Dementia Being Undermedicated? J Pain Res 2021; 14:431-439. [PMID: 33623425 PMCID: PMC7894836 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s239321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In dementia, neuropathological changes alter the perception and expression of pain. For clinicians and family members, this knowledge gap leads to difficulties in recognizing and assessing chronic pain, which may consequently result in persons with dementia receiving lower levels of pain medication compared to those without cognitive impairment. Although this situation seems to have improved in recent years, considerable geographical variation persists. Over the last decade, opioid use has received global attention as a result of overuse and the risk of addiction, while the literature on older persons with dementia actually suggests undertreatment. This review stresses the importance of reliable assessment and the regular evaluation and monitoring of symptoms in persons with dementia. Based on current evidence, we concluded that chronic pain is still undertreated in dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilco P Achterberg
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, 2300, the Netherlands
| | - Ane Erdal
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, 5020, Norway
| | - Bettina S Husebo
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, 5020, Norway
| | - Miriam Kunz
- Department of Medical Psychology, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, 86156, Germany
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24
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Hubsky AR, Noble BN, Hartung DM, Tjia J, Lapane KL, Furuno JP. Opioid prescribing on discharge to skilled nursing facilities. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2020; 29:1183-1188. [PMID: 32725962 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents are at increased risk for opioid-related harms. We quantified the frequency of opioid prescribing among patients discharged from an acute care hospital to SNFs. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study among adult (≥18 years) inpatients discharged from a quaternary-care academic referral hospital in Portland, OR to a SNF between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2018. Our primary outcome was receipt of an opioid prescription on discharge to a SNF. Our exposures included patient demographics (eg, age, sex), comorbid illnesses, surgical diagnosis related group (DRG), receiving opioids on the first day of the index hospital admission, and inpatient hospital length of stay. RESULTS Among 4374 patients discharged to a SNF, 3053 patients (70%) were prescribed an opioid on discharge. Among patients prescribed an opioid, 61% were over the age of 65 years, 50% were male, and 58% had a surgical Medicare severity diagnosis related group (MS-DRG). Approximately 70% of patients discharged to a SNF were prescribed an opioid on discharge, of which 68% were for oxycodone, and 52% were for ≥90 morphine milligram equivalents per day. Surgical DRG, diagnoses of cancer or chronic pain, last pain score, and receipt of an opioid on first day of the index hospital admission were independently associated with being prescribed an opioid on discharge to a SNF. CONCLUSION Opioids were frequently prescribed at high doses to patients discharged to a SNF. Efforts to improve opioid prescribing safety during this transition may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee R Hubsky
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Oregon State University College of Pharmacy, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Brie N Noble
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Oregon State University College of Pharmacy, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Daniel M Hartung
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Oregon State University College of Pharmacy, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jennifer Tjia
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kate L Lapane
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jon P Furuno
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Oregon State University College of Pharmacy, Portland, Oregon, USA
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25
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Jansson AH, Savikko N, Kautiainen H, Roitto HM, Pitkälä KH. Changes in prevalence of loneliness over time in institutional settings, and associated factors. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 89:104043. [PMID: 32442846 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2020.104043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine changes in the prevalence of loneliness over time from 2011 to 2017 in long-term care facilities; and its related factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS Repeated cross-sectional studies exploring loneliness and its associated factors among residents in long-term care facilities were conducted in Helsinki, Finland in 2011 (N = 4966) and 2017 (N = 3767). Residents in temporary respite care or with severe cognitive impairment, and those unable or refusing to respond to the loneliness item were excluded. The total number of participants in this analysis was 1563 in 2011, and 1367 in 2017. In both samples, we used the same loneliness measurement by asking "Do you suffer from loneliness?" (never/sometimes/often or always). When comparing the samples in order to reduce the effect of confounding between them, we used propensity score matching. A multivariable logistic regression model explored the relationship between various characteristics and loneliness. RESULTS Loneliness showed no change in prevalence over time: propensity score-adjusted loneliness was 36 % in 2011 and 2017. In the multivariate logistic regression model, feeling depressed was the only independent characteristic associated with loneliness. Of the respondents who did not feel depressed, 24 % suffered from loneliness at least sometimes. Among the respondents who felt depressed, the respective figure was 55 %. CONCLUSION Loneliness is common in institutional settings. It remained stable, and not decreased over time. Because loneliness impairs the well-being, quality of life and health of residents, it needs to be addressed. Screening loneliness and developing interventions to alleviate it, is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Jansson
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - N Savikko
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; City of Espoo, Asemakuja 2 A, FI-02070, Espoo, Finland.
| | - H Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - H-M Roitto
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Helsinki Hospital Geriatric Clinic, PO Box 6600, FI-00099, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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26
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Temporal Trends in the Use of Anticholinergic Drugs Among Older People Living in Long-Term Care Facilities in Helsinki. Drugs Aging 2020; 37:27-34. [PMID: 31705445 PMCID: PMC6965041 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-019-00720-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background The use of drugs with anticholinergic properties (DAPs) is common among older adults despite their known adverse effects, such as cognitive decline. Professionals should pay attention to DAPs, since evidence on their adverse effects has been accumulating during the last decade. However, to our knowledge previous studies exploring temporal trends in the use of DAPs are scarce. Objective The aim of this study was to assess temporal trends in the use of DAPs from 2003 to 2017 in long-term care facilities in Helsinki. Methods Four cross-sectional studies were conducted in 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2017. Participants included older people (≥ 65 years) living in nursing homes (NHs) in 2003 (n = 1979), 2011 (n = 1568), and 2017 (n = 750), and in assisted living facilities (ALFs) in 2007 (n = 1336), 2011 (n = 1556), and 2017 (n = 1673) in Helsinki, Finland. Data on demographics, medication use, and diagnoses were collected by structured questionnaires. The assessments were conducted as a point prevalence over 1 day. The use of DAPs and the total anticholinergic burden were defined by the Anticholinergic Risk Scale (ARS). Results In ALFs, there has been an increasing trend in the use of DAPs over a 10-year period (41.2% in 2007 and 53.7% in 2017). In NHs, by contrast, the use of DAPs remained quite stable (52.3% in 2003 and 52.4% in 2017). The burden of DAPs measured by ARS score decreased in NHs and remained stable in ALFs. Marked changes occurred in the DAPs used; antidepressants, especially mirtazapine, increased in both settings, whereas the use of hydroxyzine and urinary antispasmodics nearly disappeared. The proportion of users of DAP antipsychotics increased in ALFs. Participants with dementia had a lower anticholinergic burden than those without dementia, in both settings. Conclusions Despite increased knowledge of the harms of DAPs, they remain widely used. Physicians seem to be aware of the harms of DAPs among people with dementia, and some other favorable trends in prescribing were also observed. Clinicians should especially consider the indications behind the use of DAP antidepressants and antipsychotics, and carefully weigh their potential benefits and harms.
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27
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Lintula E, Tiihonen M, Taipale H, Tolppanen AM, Tanskanen A, Tiihonen J, Hartikainen S, Hamina A. Opioid Use After Hospital Care due to Hip Fracture Among Community-Dwelling Persons With and Without Alzheimer's Disease. Drugs Aging 2020; 37:193-203. [PMID: 31879863 PMCID: PMC7044157 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-019-00734-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hip fractures are common among persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD), but problems in pain assessment may lead to insufficient analgesia after hospitalization. OBJECTIVE We investigated the prevalence of opioid use in the 6 months after discharge from hospital care due to hip fracture among community-dwellers with and without AD. SETTING AND METHOD The Medication use and Alzheimer's disease (MEDALZ) cohort was used for this study, consisting of all community-dwelling persons newly diagnosed with AD during 2005-2011 in Finland and their comparison persons without AD matched on age, sex, and region of residence at the time of AD diagnosis. Data were collected from nationwide healthcare registers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We investigated opioid use versus non-use in persons with and without AD in the 6 months after discharge from hospital care due to hip fracture. RESULTS Altogether 2342 persons with AD and 1615 persons without AD, discharged to community settings within ≤ 120 days after a hip fracture, were included. A higher percentage of persons with AD used opioids compared to those without AD, 39.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 37.5-41.5] versus 31.2% (95% CI 28.9-33.5). Persons with AD used more frequently strong opioids during the first 3 months and buprenorphine during the 6-month period, and used weak opioids less frequently after the first month after discharge compared to those without AD. CONCLUSIONS Frequent opioid use after hospital care due to hip fracture may indicate increased attention to pain among persons with AD. Nevertheless, the benefits and harms of opioid use should be evaluated regularly in community-dwelling older persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eveliina Lintula
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Miia Tiihonen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland.
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Heidi Taipale
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Niuvankuja 65, 70240, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Anna-Maija Tolppanen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Antti Tanskanen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Niuvankuja 65, 70240, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jari Tiihonen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Niuvankuja 65, 70240, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sirpa Hartikainen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Aleksi Hamina
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, P.O.B 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland
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28
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Is There an Opioid Crisis in Nursing Homes? J Am Med Dir Assoc 2019; 20:273-274. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2018.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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