Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (629)348-3199

Short Communication - Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing (2025) Volume 8, Issue 1

Management of Chronic Illnesses in Older Adults: Insights for Geriatric Nursing Practice

David Argillander *

Department of Emergency Medicine, OLVG Hospital, Netherlands

*Corresponding Author:
David Argillander
Department of Emergency Medicine, OLVG Hospital, Netherlands
E-mail: dav.argillander@gmail.com

Received: 02-Feb -2025, Manuscript No. AAICCN-25-161357; Editor assigned: 03-Feb-2025, PreQC No. AAICCN-25-161357 (PQ); Reviewed:16-Feb-2025, QC No. AAICCN-25-161357; Revised:22-Feb-2025, Manuscript No. AAICCN-25-161357 (R); Published:28-Feb-2025, DOI:10.35841/AAICCN-8.1.254

Citation: Argillander D. Management of chronic illnesses in older adults: Insights for geriatric nursing practice. J Intensive Crit Care Nurs. 2025;8(1):254

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing

Introduction

The aging population is growing globally, bringing an increased prevalence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and dementia. Managing these conditions requires a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to enhance the quality of life for older adults. Geriatric nurses play a crucial role in chronic disease management by providing holistic care, patient education, and coordination with interdisciplinary teams. This article explores key strategies in geriatric nursing for managing chronic illnesses and improving patient outcomes [1].

Chronic diseases are the leading cause of disability and mortality among older adults. These conditions often coexist, complicating treatment and care plans. For example, an elderly patient with diabetes may also have hypertension and cardiovascular disease, requiring coordinated and multifaceted management strategies [2].

Geriatric nurses employ various strategies to ensure effective management of chronic illnesses, focusing on prevention, symptom control, and patient empowerment. A thorough assessment is the foundation of effective chronic disease management. Nurses evaluate physical health, medication regimens, cognitive function, psychosocial status, and social determinants of health. Regular screenings and monitoring help detect complications early and adjust treatment plans accordingly [3].

Polypharmacy is a common issue among older adults, increasing the risk of adverse drug interactions and non-adherence. Nurses conduct medication reconciliation, educate patients on proper medication use, and collaborate with pharmacists to simplify drug regimens [4].

Education is essential in chronic disease self-management. Nurses teach patients and caregivers about disease progression, symptom management, lifestyle modifications, and warning signs of complications. Educational interventions have been shown to improve adherence and patient engagement in their own care [5].

Diet and physical activity play significant roles in managing chronic conditions. Nurses provide dietary guidance tailored to specific diseases, such as low-sodium diets for hypertension or carbohydrate control for diabetes. Encouraging regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, mobility, and overall well-being [6].

Chronic illnesses often lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation in older adults. Nurses assess mental health status and provide emotional support, counseling, and referrals to mental health professionals when necessary. Social engagement activities and support groups can also help mitigate the psychological impact of chronic disease [7].

Nurses play a crucial role in preventing hospital admissions by managing symptoms effectively and ensuring timely medical interventions. Home health nursing, telehealth monitoring, and early detection of complications can reduce emergency visits and improve long-term outcomes [8].

Managing chronic illnesses requires a team-based approach. Nurses coordinate with physicians, physical therapists, dietitians, and social workers to ensure comprehensive care. Effective communication and teamwork enhance patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs [9].

Rural and underserved populations face barriers to medical care and health resources. Conditions like dementia complicate self-management and medication adherence. High healthcare costs may lead to medication non-adherence and limited access to treatment options. Family caregivers often experience stress and burnout while managing complex care needs [10].

Conclusion

Effective management of chronic illnesses in older adults requires a holistic, interdisciplinary approach. Geriatric nurses play a vital role in patient education, medication management, mental health support, and complication prevention. Addressing challenges such as healthcare access and caregiver burden will further enhance care quality and patient outcomes. By integrating innovative strategies and collaborative care models, geriatric nurses can significantly improve the lives of older adults living with chronic illnesses.

References

  1. Mezey M, Boltz M, Esterson J, Mitty E. Evolving models of geriatric nursing care. Geriatr Nurs. 2005;26(1):11-5.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Gray-Miceli D, Wilson LD, Stanley J, et al., Improving the quality of geriatric nursing care: Enduring outcomes from the geriatric nursing education consortium. J Prof Nurs. 2014;30(6):447-55.

    3. Google Scholar

  3. Fulmer T. A retrospective/prospective on the future of geriatric nursing. Geriatr Nurs. 2020;41(1):29-31.

    4. Google Scholar

  4. Persoon A, Bakker FC, van der Wal?Huisman H, Olde Rikkert MG. Development and validation of the geriatric in?hospital nursing care questionnaire. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2015;63(2):327-34.

    5. Google Scholar

  5. Capezuti E, Boltz M, Cline D, et al., Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders–a model for optimising the geriatric nursing practice environment. J Clin Nurs. 2012;21(21-22):3117-25.

    6. Google Scholar

  6. Kane RL, Garrard J, Skay CL, et al., Effects of a geriatric nurse practitioner on process and outcome of nursing home care. Am J Public Health. 1989;79(9):1271-7.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar

  7. Burl JB, Bonner A, Rao M, Khan AM. Advancing Geriatric Nursing Practice: Geriatric Nurse Practitioners in Long?Term Care: Demonstration of Effectiveness in Managed Care. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1998;46(4):506-10.

    8. Google Scholar

  8. Ribeiro PC, Marques RM, Ribeiro MP. Geriatric care: ways and means of providing comfort. Rev Bras Enferm. 2017;70(4):830-7.

    9. Google Scholar

  9. McConnell ES, Lekan D, Bunn M, et al., Teaching evidence-based nursing practice in geriatric care settings: the geriatric nursing innovations through education institute. J Gerontol Nurs. 2009;35(4):26-33.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar

  10. Boyle DM. Realities to guide novel and necessary nursing care in geriatric oncology. Cancer Nurs. 1994;17(2):125-36.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App