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We present data from 92404 clinical assessments from 619 Swiss nursing homes. The data were collected in 2019 and 2020 from over 65-year-old residents. Two-thirds of those studied had severe cognitive limitations, one quarter had significant behavioral disorders and just over half of the assessed patients showed signs of emotional instability or depression. 46% were treated with nine or more different drugs, 37% received a neuroleptic in 85% for more than 90 days. There is a positive correlation between the number of drugs taken, age, cognitive impairment and susceptibility to falls. Since neuroleptics are administered in 30% under uncertain indication and the susceptibility to falls is increased by 40% under neuroleptics, their use should be reduced in the course of structured interprofessional processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is characterized by a generalized and progredient bone loss, leading to low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration with subsequent bone fragility. For some percent of the patients at risk, laboratory findings may reveal unsuspected secondary osteoporosis or may influence some aspects of diagnostics and therapy. The aim of the laboratory tests is, therefore, to exclude to a large extent the most important forms of secondary osteoporosis and other potential bone diseases. Among other determinants, increased bone resorption evaluated by specific biochemical markers has been shown to be associated with increased risk of fractures independently of BMD. The combination of bone mass measurement and assessment of bone turnover by biochemical markers are thus helpful in the assessment of osteoporotic fracture risk. Repeated measurements of biochemical markers during treatment appear to improve the management of osteoporotic patients.