Orthostatic Hypotension in Older Adults and its economic impact on the healthcare system: A Systematic Literature Review

Authors

Olushola E. Ilogho, University of LynchburgFollow
Jennifer BroylesFollow
Viet LeFollow
Denise RizzoloFollow

Specialty

Hospital Medicine

Advisor

Blake Rogers

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Orthostatic Hypotension (OH) has been shown to lead to poor quality of life, falls, and death. Literature suggests that falls from OH may be preventable, therefore opportunities to reduce its associated cost to the healthcare system exist. This literature review aims to evaluate the importance of diagnosing and treating OH in older adult patients. OH is the drop in blood pressure upon changing to an upright position. This acute hemodynamic drop in blood pressure causes hypoperfusion in the brain, leading to dizziness, syncope, and falls. An extensive literature search for publications in PubMed and Cumulative Index in Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases primarily within the past 5 years, revealed the impact of falls on the healthcare system, diagnosis and types of OH, and treatment to prevent recurrence. The findings show that the costs of falls on the healthcare system continue to rise. The evidence suggests that there is a high prevalence of older adults with OH in all settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and the community. Diagnosing patients with falls can be life-saving and improve their quality of life.

Recommended Citation

Ilogho, Olushola E.; Broyles, Jennifer; Le, Viet; and Rizzolo, Denise (2025) "Orthostatic Hypotension in Older Adults and its economic impact on the healthcare system: A Systematic Literature Review," Lynchburg Journal of Medical Science: Vol. 1: Iss. 3, Article 6.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.63932/3067-7106.1043
Available at: https://digitalshowcase.lynchburg.edu/jms/vol1/iss3/6