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LANSING, Mich. -- The Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists is encouraging older patients to talk to their care teams about anesthesia and cognitive health before undergoing procedures or surgeries.
Nearly 40% of surgeries in the U.S. are performed on adults age 65 and older. As the population ages, older adults make up a growing share of surgical patients, making perioperative brain health an increasingly important issue.
Dr. Michael Lewis is the immediate past president of the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists and has focused on geriatrics for much of his more than 30-year career as a physician anesthesiologist. He also serves on the Committee on Geriatric Anesthesia for the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
"Older patients should feel empowered to ask questions about the effects of anesthesia on cognitive function before surgery," Dr. Lewis said. "Talking with your anesthesia and surgical care teams about overall health, medications, and any concerns about memory can help us tailor a patient's care to their individual needs."
With patients older than 65, physician anesthesiologists are mindful of potential cognitive impacts of anesthesia. Patients and caregivers should be prepared with information about the patient's current cognitive functioning and prescribed medications, as patients already experiencing cognitive decline, which happens with age, are more susceptible to perioperative neurocognitive disorders like delirium or memory loss.
To help combat these issues, physician anesthesiologists can tailor anesthetic plans for patients. They may update the surgical plan with different medications or find alternatives to deep sedation which may have more of an impact on the cognitive functioning of older patients.
Before procedures or surgeries, Dr. Lewis encourages patients and their families to talk with their care teams about potential side effects of anesthesia.
Older patients should also:
-- Bring an up-to-date list of medications so their care team can advise on medications to stop taking before surgery;
-- Manage existing health conditions;
-- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs before surgery;
-- Stay hydrated and follow fasting instructions; and
-- Get a good night's sleep before surgery.