Description

This edition opens with a superb review of the factors underpinning good prescribing in old age, including a number of insights into how cellular ageing might influence drug handling, arising from Prof. Allan McLeans research programme. This leads naturally to the trio of articles on polymyalgia rheumatica, steroid therapy and statins by Drs Hopkinson, Ivatts and Kausar respectively. I have also grouped together the two reviews on gait analysis and walking aids which were commissioned in response to suggestions from the readership; these are complementary and provide an excellent update on these important but often neglected topics. Dr Hewitts paper on depression gives us not only a trawl of the evidence in that field but also a perspective derived from his extensive experience in old-age psychiatry. Indeed, it is my intention to follow up on this theme in the next edition with pieces on the treatment of dementia.

I am now receiving newly published books for review. If any readers have suggestions for book reviews I will gladly respond. Furthermore, I am also willing to consider for publication unsolicited reviews of books broadly pertaining to geriatric medical practice. I hope you enjoy this edition, and anticipate your feedback.

Stephen Allen
Editor