Methodology for senior-proof guidelines: A practice example from the Netherlands

Abstract

Rationale, Aims and Objectives: Evidence-based guidelines constitute a foundation for medical decision making. It is often unclear whether recommendations in general guidelines also apply to older people. This study aimed to develop a methodology to increase the focus on older people in the development of guidelines. Methods: The methodology distinguishes 4 groups of older people: (1) relatively healthy older people; (2) older people with 1 additional specific (interfering) comorbid condition; (3) older people with multimorbidity; and (4) vulnerable older people. Results: The level of focus on older people required may be determined by the prevalence of the disease or condition, level of suf..