Elder Emergencies

Emergency departments (EDs) are no longer one-size-fits-all. Many find value in modifying to meet older adults’ broader challenges. This shift has led to the growth of geriatric-certified EDs — specialized units that provide tailored care to the aging population.

“Older patients come to the [ED] not just with one big issue but often with multiple, interconnected problems,” says Kevin Biese, MD, an emergency medicine physician in North Carolina and chair of the American College of Emergency Physicians’ Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) program. A holistic approach to senior care looks beyond the immediate issue and focuses on the broader picture, such as preventing future falls or managing medications.

GEDA has certified more than 500 geriatric EDs since 2018, which handled approximately 4 million older-adult visits in 2023 alone. Each hospital’s bronze, silver, or gold rating indicates its level of specialized staff training and resources for older patients. 

On Chicago’s South Side, Joy Greer, DNP, the nurse manager of St. Bernard Hospital’s ED says the department’s updates have included easy-to-read discharge instructions, a clinical pharmacist for medication reconciliation, and collaboration with Center for Better Aging geriatric physicians.

Ultimately, every person in the U.S. should have access to emergency care designed for their needs, Biese says, adding, “People aging is what winning looks like in healthcare.” 

Originally published in the Summer/Fall 2024 print issue