Asthma in the elderly

Abstract

Contrary to popular belief, asthma is not uncommon in people over the age of 65 years. The diagnosis is often missed in this age group, however, and the management of the condition may be less than optimal compared with younger patients. Thus, it is important to understand that Australian National Asthma Campaign Guidelines apply to patients of all ages, and that routine asthma drugs are effective and safe in the elderly. At the same time, clinicians should remember that drugs used for asthma may complicate other comorbidities commonly present in the elderly, and that such comorbid conditions and their treatment may also have an impact on the patient's asthma.