The multidisciplinary expert panel behind this update includes 19 nationally recognized professionals spanning 14 states, all of whom bring specialized expertise ranging from pharmacy practice to physical therapy and psychology. Among these contributors is Dr. Noll Campbell of the Regenstrief Institute and Purdue University College of Pharmacy—the sole expert representing Indiana—whose insights were instrumental in fortifying the clinical relevance and practical applicability of the recommendations. Their united effort underscores a paradigm shift from abstinence-focused directives to actionable alternatives that align with patient-centered goals and real-world clinical intricacies.

At the heart of the Beers Criteria lies the identification of medications whose side effect profiles—such as sedation, risk of falls, delirium, and detrimental drug-disease interactions—pose heightened dangers to aging physiology. However, prior iterations often faced criticism for their limited guidance beyond indicating what drugs to avoid. Addressing this gap, the AGS update introduces a sophisticated framework that empowers clinicians with clear, symptom-oriented tables of alternative therapies, inclusive of pharmacologic substitutes and non-drug interventions grounded in robust clinical evidence.

A transformative feature of this initiative is its patient and caregiver-centric approach. Recognizing that medication safety extends beyond prescriber decisions, the AGS has developed a suite of educational materials designed to facilitate informed dialogue, support deprescribing processes, and foster sustainable lifestyle adjustments. This aligns with contemporary emphasis on shared decision-making and highlights the necessity of equipping users at all levels with accessible, trustworthy resources to navigate complex treatment landscapes.

Categorically, the expert panel divided their work into eight focused domains: insomnia and anxiety; allergy and pruritus; cardiovascular and anticoagulation therapies; pain management; delirium and dementia; diabetes control; gastrointestinal syndromes; and genitourinary disorders. Each subgroup conducted meticulous reviews of contemporary, high-quality guidelines and systematic reviews tailored to geriatric populations, prioritizing U.S.-based standards while incorporating international data where methodological rigor and recency justified inclusion. This exhaustive process distilled alternatives pertinent to 21 frequently encountered conditions, underscoring the importance of treating underlying etiologies rather than symptoms alone.

For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy emerges as a front-line non-pharmacologic treatment for insomnia, addressing the disorder’s neurobehavioral roots without introducing sedative risks. Similarly, therapeutic exercise and physical therapy feature prominently for Parkinson’s disease management, mitigating motor symptoms and potentially slowing functional decline through neuroplasticity-enhancing mechanisms. Lifestyle interventions for constipation and dietary modifications for heartburn exemplify tailored approaches that favor physiological normalization over symptomatic suppression. Behavioral and dietary strategies also serve as pivotal alternatives to medication for urinary symptoms, reflecting an adaptive, minimally invasive paradigm focused on quality of life.

Central to the AGS recommendations are five guiding principles designed to recalibrate clinician perspectives: prioritizing patient well-being over mere drug discontinuation; advocating non-pharmacologic methods as initial interventions; rigorously investigating symptom origins prior to prescribing; maintaining nuanced clinical judgment that balances risks and benefits; and leveraging comprehensive resources for both deprescribing and patient empowerment. This framework acknowledges the clinical complexity and heterogeneity inherent in geriatric care, advocating for flexible, individualized treatment plans informed by functional goals and patient preferences.

The panel openly acknowledges the challenges posed by existing literature, which often falls short in addressing the nuances of the oldest and most medically complex patients. The presentation of flexible recommendations encourages clinicians to adapt interventions as patients’ conditions evolve. Such responsiveness is particularly critical given that abrupt medication cessation may precipitate symptom recurrence or exacerbation, potentially undermining therapeutic gains. This reality underscores the necessity for readily implementable alternative treatments that preserve symptom control while minimizing harm.

Dr. Campbell emphasizes that this update aims not merely to issue cautionary advisories but to equip clinicians with tangible tools and actionable pathways toward safer, more effective care. The transition from warnings to solutions epitomizes a modern approach to medication safety, wherein actionable alternatives foster empowerment rather than reluctance. This approach harmonizes with the broader movement within geriatric medicine towards comprehensive, team-based, and patient-centered care models.

Beyond the clinical sphere, the inclusion of patient- and caregiver-facing decision aids reflects a commitment to democratizing healthcare knowledge and fostering autonomy. These materials simplify complex medical information, enabling users to engage meaningfully in care decisions and enhancing adherence to deprescribing and lifestyle interventions. This innovation recognizes the critical role of caregivers and patients as active participants in managing geriatric conditions, particularly in settings such as homes and nursing facilities where medication-related harms often manifest.

The publication of this work in the peer-reviewed Journal of the American Geriatrics Society solidifies its scholarly and clinical credibility. By disseminating these evidence-based alternatives through a respected platform, the AGS aims to accelerate their adoption and influence clinical practices nationwide. The broad geographic representation of the panel—from states including California, Texas, New York, and others—further ensures that perspectives reflect a diverse array of healthcare environments and patient demographics.

Ultimately, the 2023 update to the AGS Beers Criteria alternatives list represents a paradigm shift in geriatric medication safety—from a focus on exclusion to an emphasis on inclusion of safer, evidence-based options. Integrating pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic strategies with patient education and interdisciplinary collaboration, the initiative embodies a forward-looking vision to enhance health outcomes for older adults. This comprehensive approach not only mitigates medication-related risks but also fosters functional independence, symptom relief, and improved quality of life—pillars essential to the future of aging care.

Subject of Research: Alternatives to potentially inappropriate medications for older adults as outlined in the 2023 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria®

Article Title: Alternative Treatments to Selected Medications in the 2023 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria®

News Publication Date: 23-Jul-2025

Web References: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jgs.19500

References: Published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society

Keywords: Health and medicine

The American Geriatrics Society, an organization dedicated to advancing the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults, highlights Schakowsky’s leadership as instrumental in the expansion and support of programs critical to the geriatrics workforce. According to AGS President Dr. Mark A. Supiano, Schakowsky’s championing of initiatives like the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) and the Geriatrics Academic Career Award (GACA) embodies the core values and community service ethos of Dr. David H. Solomon, a pioneer in geriatric medicine. These programs focus on comprehensive education and training, addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals skilled in geriatric care.

With the aging of the American population, there is an urgent demand for healthcare professionals equipped with geriatrics knowledge to manage complex age-related conditions such as frailty, dementia, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy. Congresswoman Schakowsky recognizes this necessity and has consistently advocated for policies that ensure the healthcare system can meet these evolving needs. Her legislative initiatives emphasize not only expanding the workforce but also improving the quality and accessibility of geriatrics education, which translates into better patient outcomes for older adults.

During the 115th Congress (2017–2018), Schakowsky introduced the Geriatrics Workforce and Caregiver Enhancement Act (H.R. 3713) to reauthorize vital workforce training programs. This act aimed to bolster educational infrastructure and support healthcare providers and caregivers who deliver specialized care to older adults. Subsequently, in the 116th Congress, she introduced the Educating Medical Professionals and Optimizing Workforce Efficiency and Readiness (EMPOWER) for Health Act of 2019 (H.R. 2781). This latter legislation gained further prominence when it was integrated into the 2020 COVID-19 stimulus package, extending authorization for critical geriatrics programs through 2025.

The inclusion of the EMPOWER for Health Act in pandemic relief legislation underscores the intersection of geriatrics workforce issues with broader public health emergencies. Older adults have experienced disproportionate impacts from COVID-19, particularly in long-term care settings, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities in geriatrics care. Schakowsky’s efforts helped ensure sustained funding and programmatic support for geriatrics education initiatives at a time when the demand for specialized geriatric care surged dramatically, highlighting both the resilience and adaptability of healthcare education frameworks.

The Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program and the Geriatrics Academic Career Award represent cornerstone initiatives supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). These programs foster interdisciplinary training and clinical innovation, aiming to prepare a healthcare workforce capable of addressing the multifaceted needs of aging populations. By sustaining these programs, Congresswoman Schakowsky has fortified the foundation of geriatrics education, enabling better integration of geriatric competencies across various healthcare environments.

Congresswoman Schakowsky’s commitment to older adults extends beyond legislative frameworks; her personal dedication to aging issues is reflected in her career trajectory and advocacy history. She previously served as Executive Director of the Illinois State Council of Senior Citizens, where she championed seniors’ rights and access to healthcare and social services. Currently, she co-chairs the Democratic Task Force on Aging and Families, using this platform to advocate for equitable policies that address social determinants of health and systemic barriers affecting seniors nationwide.

In accepting the David H. Solomon Memorial Public Service Award, Schakowsky expressed profound gratitude and reaffirmed her dedication to advancing the healthcare needs of older Americans. She emphasized the importance of enabling seniors to retire with dignity and assured continued efforts to expand access to high-quality care. Her statement encapsulated a broader vision of healthcare as a right for all ages and underscored the pivotal role of advocacy in shaping effective, empathetic health policy.

AGS CEO Nancy Lundebjerg praised Congresswoman Schakowsky’s advocacy as transformative, noting its impact on millions of older adults and caregivers. This testimonial serves as a testament to how policy leaders and geriatrics professionals can synergize efforts to translate complex medical and social needs into actionable programs. The ability to influence congressional support for geriatrics workforce development conveys the critical importance of political engagement in healthcare reform.

The David H. Solomon Memorial Public Service Award, named after a trailblazing geriatrician and educator, has been bestowed annually since 2002 to individuals exemplifying excellence in community service and advancement of geriatrics knowledge. Dr. Solomon, whose career established foundational research and educational models in geriatric care, remains an enduring inspiration for healthcare professionals dedicated to improving outcomes for older patients.

This year’s AGS Annual Scientific Meeting, held May 8–10 in Chicago with a pre-conference day on May 7, provides a platform to honor Schakowsky and other leaders advancing geriatrics across diverse disciplines. The gathering of healthcare practitioners, educators, researchers, and policymakers underscores the interdisciplinary nature of geriatrics, encompassing medicine, nursing, pharmacy, social work, and public health. The Meeting serves as a vital conduit for disseminating cutting-edge research and innovative clinical approaches aimed at enhancing geriatric care delivery systems.

The award presentation will take place during the Public Policy plenary session on May 9, illustrating the essential link between health policy advocacy and clinical science in geriatrics. This integration highlights the growing acknowledgment that sustainable improvements in care for older adults require informed policy frameworks to support workforce capacity, research funding, and equitable access to services.

Ultimately, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky’s recognition by the American Geriatrics Society symbolizes the critical importance of legislative leadership in shaping a healthcare system responsive to the needs of an aging society. By bridging the realms of medicine, policy, and community service, her work ensures that geriatrics education and workforce development remain priorities on the national agenda, fostering innovation and compassion in care for older generations.

Subject of Research: Geriatrics workforce development and healthcare policy for older adults
Article Title: Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky Honored for Pioneering Advocacy in Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement
News Publication Date: April 15, 2025
Web References: https://www.americangeriatrics.org/media-center/news/AmericanGeriatrics.org, https://meeting.americangeriatrics.org/
Keywords: Geriatrics, Public health, Health care policy, Older adults

Dr. Bradway’s journey in the field of gerontological nursing spans more than three decades, focusing on enhancing the quality of care for older adults facing complex health challenges such as urinary incontinence, severe obesity, chronic conditions, and dementia. Her commitment to the geriatric population is not only a professional pursuit but a personal mission, stemming from her early life experiences in a multigenerational household. This emphasis on family and care has shaped her understanding of the unique needs of older individuals, allowing her to approach geriatric care holistically.

Currently positioned as Professor Emerita at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Dr. Bradway is not one to rest on her laurels. Instead, she actively engages in mentoring nursing PhD students and instructs classes within Penn’s International Master of Public Administration Program. Furthermore, her unwavering dedication extends to volunteer work with community organizations that aim to bolster the care offered to older adults, proving that her influence transcends academic walls. By nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers, she ensures that her legacy continues in effectively addressing the complexities of aging.

The AGS will formally recognize Dr. Bradway’s achievements during the upcoming AGS 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting, which will occur from May 8 to 10 in Chicago, Illinois. Such events serve as crucial platforms for sharing advancements in geriatrics research and education. They provide not only networking opportunities but also pathways to integrating innovative practices into the care of older adults, illuminating how dedicated individuals like Dr. Bradway can catalyze meaningful change.

Dr. Bradway’s passion for geriatrics ignited during her teenage years while gaining hands-on experience in a community hospital, a formative encounter that transformed her career trajectory. Moving from high-level trauma and intensive care, she redirected her focus toward primary care geriatrics as a nurse practitioner. Her trajectory is a testament to her adaptability and a reflection of her intrinsic understanding of where her skills and interests could do the most good. This understanding is particularly critical in a field where the interplay of chronic disease management and quality of life is paramount.

Throughout her extensive career, Dr. Bradway has assumed various leadership roles, which amplify her impact on the landscape of geriatrics education. She has notably directed the Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Program at the University of Pennsylvania, shaping future clinicians’ understanding of elderly care practices. This direct involvement in educational programs highlights her belief that the foundation of effective geriatric care lies in robust training and the cultivation of compassionate, knowledgeable professionals.

As the previous Chair of the AGS Annual Meeting in 2022, Dr. Bradway wielded influence beyond the university environment. Her work in the Geriatric Education Center of Greater Philadelphia exemplified her dedication to collaborative education. Interprofessional training is particularly vital in geriatrics, where successful outcomes often depend on the seamless integration of healthcare teams across various disciplines. Through her efforts, she has contributed to the establishment of various models of care that prioritize collaboration and comprehensive approaches to geriatrics.

Dr. Bradway’s impact extends beyond education to encompass substantial participation within the AGS itself. Her long-standing membership since 1985 has seen her take on influential roles in numerous committees such as the Health Systems Committee and the Education Committee. This breadth of involvement provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges facing the field and equips her to advocate effectively for improvements in geriatrics education and healthcare delivery systems.

Research remains a fundamental aspect of her career, with a specific focus on urologic health, obesity, and the transitions that older patients face when moving between different care settings. Her scholarly work, including publications in pivotal journals such as JAGS and the Annals of Long-Term Care, has placed her at the forefront of discussions concerning vulnerabilities in older adult care. In these capacities, she has illuminated the realities of aging and fostered a greater understanding of how targeted research can lead to improvements in clinical practice.

As a mentor, Dr. Bradway has reached countless students and early-career professionals through the AGS Mentoring Program, a legacy that speaks volumes about her dedication to nurturing the future of geriatrics. Her mentorship approach equips emerging leaders with the tools they need to navigate the intricate landscape of geriatric care, emphasizing resilience, compassion, and innovation. As geriatric care increasingly becomes a focal point in healthcare discussions, the importance of mentoring cannot be overstated. Mentors like Dr. Bradway cultivate a future generation of healthcare professionals willing and able to advocate for older adults.

In recognizing Dr. Bradway with the Dennis W. Jahnigen Memorial Award, the AGS honors not just her accomplishments, but the underlying values that define her approach to geriatrics education. The award serves as a reminder of the indelible mark that compassionate educators can have on their fields. This recognition further emphasizes the significant responsibility that healthcare professionals bear towards their patients, especially as societies continue to grapple with aging populations’ needs and challenges.

Through her work, Dr. Bradway exemplifies the importance of addressing the evolving demands of geriatric care. This recognition not only celebrates her extensive body of work but also serves as a clarion call for continued focus on the education and training of future practitioners who will inevitably face the complexities of an aging healthcare system. As attendees gather at the AGS Annual Scientific Meeting, Dr. Bradway’s story will likely resonate, inspiring others to follow her path in advocating and innovating within the important field of geriatrics.

As we reflect on Dr. Bradway’s honors and contributions, it becomes clear that the mission of improving the health and quality of life for older adults is far from complete. In fact, her achievements underscore the critical need for ongoing commitment to academic excellence, advocacy, and compassionate care in the ever-evolving landscape of geriatrics. The journey is long, but with role models like Dr. Bradway leading the way, hope remains for a future where older adults receive the specialized care and respect they deserve.

### Subject of Research:
Advancements in Geriatrics Education and Care

### Article Title:
Christine K. Wanich Bradway Recognized for Contributions to Geriatrics Education

### News Publication Date:
April 11, 2025

### Web References:
https://meeting.americangeriatrics.org/

### References:
[Not applicable]

### Image Credits:
[Not applicable]

### Keywords
Geriatrics, Healthcare Education, Aging, Chronic Care, Urinary Incontinence, Obesity, Dementia, Geriatric Nursing, Mentorship, Interprofessional Education, Healthcare Advocacy