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THE PROBLEM:  Prescription of benzodiazepines increases with age, and adults 60 and older are the age group most likely to be prescribed benzodiazepines. While benzodiazepines can be useful in carefully selected older adults, their potential benefits must be balanced with their well-established risks, including falls, fractures, cognitive impairment, and delirium. Approximately 12.5% of adult American patients…
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Led by Megan Hamm, Ph.D., the OPTIMUM team conducted a multi-city qualitative study to explore how COVID-19 and its consequences have affected older adults. The team interviewed 73 individuals already enrolled in the OPTIMUM study using qualitative interviewing methods to learn about how the global pandemic is affecting their emotional health. Five major themes emerged:…
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Congratulations to Lead Research Project Coordinator James Emanuel, recipient of a 2019 ACES Award. The Award for Commitment and Excellence in Service (ACES) honors staff who exemplify UPMC’s five core values — Quality & Safety, Dignity & Respect, Caring & Listening, Responsibility & Integrity, Excellence & Innovation. Click here for full article.