The impact of demographic changes on the presentation and outcome of stroke: experiences of the oldest old in the Murrumbidgee region

Powell, A., Mewburn, J., Finucane, P., Jude, M., Mohr, K.,

Objectives

To build a profile of the experiences of stroke in the oldest old in the Murrumbidgee region and compare variables with two younger cohorts to test hypotheses about background, treatment and outcomes. 

Methods

Prospective data from 100 stroke patients consecutively admitted to the Wagga Wagga Rural Referral Hospital Acute Stroke Unit was reviewed from a stroke database. Comparisons were made between the young old (65-74), old old (75 to 84) and oldest old (85 and older).

Results

Older stroke patients were predominantly female with poorer premorbid functional status. Atrial fibrillation (p=0.008) and hypertension (p=0.01) were more common with advancing age. Smoking rates (p=0.006) were higher in younger patients. Stroke mechanism was predominantly cardioembolic in older patients. Outcomes were poorer with rates of dependency (p=0.03) and residential aged care facility placement (p=0.06) increased.

Conclusion

These data signal how stroke may manifest in our ageing population in the future.