Disparities in Health and Treatment Seniors who belong to more than one group at risk for lower socioeconomic status are at increased risk for illness and disability. –Older women are among the most disadvantaged population –Minorities are also at risk –Having a chronic disease, whether new or pre- existing, can have a significant impact (Murray & Boyd, 2009)

Historically Disadvantaged Groups With Dementia or Alzheimer’s Cumulative damage of a lifetime of disadvantage and lack of opportunities Need for long-term care High out of pocket expenses (Murray & Boyd, 2009)

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Those with Alzheimer’s and dementia are often left out of decisions, even early in their disease Increasing number of deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s Hospice care is uncommon for patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia Nonpalliative care measures, like feeding tubes and restraints, are frequently used with this population (Murray & Boyd, 2009)

Differences in Treatment for Older Smokers Widely recognized that smoking cessation is important to prevent or decrease many adverse health conditions Patients over 65 yrs are significantly less likely to be counseled or offered prescriptions to help them quit Older women are even less likely to receive tx (Steinburg, Akincigil, Delnevo, Crystal, & Carson, 2006)

Why are Older Smokers Treated Differently? Possible belief that too much damage has already been done –Inaccurate, as quitting at any age has been shown to increase life expectancy, decrease medical complications, and increase quality of life Previous concerns about safety of medications for cessation for this population have been proven to be unfounded Ironically, older smokers may be even more motivated to quit than younger smokers (Steinberg et al., 2006)