Dr Lucy Pollock is a Geriatrician and author, having written two books: The Golden Rule - Lessons In Living From A Doctor Of Aging https://amzn.eu/d/5Wnmdop and The Book About Getting Older https://amzn.eu/d/cGbBH0U. Lucy spoke to Annabel James from Age Space, giving advice on managing multiple conditions and medications, advocating for better conversations and practical conversations, and taboo subjects like incontience and whether it's time to stop driving a vehicle.

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Terms Used In This Episode:

BRAN - Benefits. Risks. Alternatives. (What happens if I do) Nothing.

DNR - Do not resuscitate

ACP - Advance care plan

ADRT - Advance decision to refuse treatment

Learnings From This Episode:

Geriatricians are based in hospitals but an increasing number work in the community. Most problems with older relatives and friends are managed in primary care, but complex cases may require a geriatrician. Preventative care is incredibly important and helps reduce the risk of acute emergency admissions.

Lucy's motivation to write was a wish to fill a gap in information about geriatric care and helping families ask the right questions. Having key conversations with elderly relatives is important - and whilst taboo subjects like driving cessation and incontinence can be difficult, there are ways to approach this.

The BRAN test evaluates the benefit, risk, alternatives, and necessity of medications.

Polypharmacy (multiple drugs and medications) is a growing challenge for professionals, patients and relatives. Using the BRAN test, an unnecessary medication can be identified.

Incontinence is common but it isn't necessarily 'normal'. There are ways to manage it, including pelvic floor exercises, dietary changes and equipment.

Except in limited cases, you cannot ask the doctor to stop somebody driving, This has to be a conversation with the DVLA.

Lucy also discusses the benefits of hospital at home and virtual wards for elderly patients. She explains that hospital at home can be a safer and more comfortable alternative to traditional hospital admissions.

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