An Integrated Approach to Pulmonology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care

As people age, the prevalence of classic pulmonary diseases such as COPD, pneumonia, or bronchial carcinoma typically increases. However, a pulmonary diagnosis alone does not determine the course of the disease. Frailty, functional reserves, delirium, cognition, nutrition, pain, and the definition of treatment goals determine whether acute pulmonary care, early geriatric rehabilitation, or palliative care should be the primary focus.