Getting prepared for the silver wave: challenges in conducting rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease research in older adults.

Abstract

Research in older adults diagnosed with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) comes with unique challenges, as these patients often face consequences of ageing, such as multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and geriatric syndromes (eg, frailty). In this viewpoint, we highlight various clinical, ethical, regulatory and logistical challenges, including, among others, issues with the decision-making capacity of older adults regarding study participation. We emphasise the need for feasible strategies and protocols to enhance research inclusivity in order to ultimately improve evidence-based care for the growing population of older adults with RMDs.