An important component of access to high quality health services for older people are clinical practice guidelines, which summarise best evidence regarding treatment options to provide a framework for clinicians in treating older people. this article outlines key suggestions to improve clinical practice guidelines for older people:

• Inclusion of older people and those with multimorbidities in clinical studies should be increased
• Evidence search strategies and outcomes for distinct cohorts of older people need to be developed and recognised
• Cross-referencing and vignettes should be used to aid in clinical decision making for multimorbidities
• A patient-centred approach with supported decision making should be followed.

The authors argue that guidelines should be urgently reviewed and updated by considering older people, their carers, and clinicians with relevant specialist expertise. This will ensure they are informative and relevant, particularly for older people who have multiple comorbid conditions.

Read the Lancet paper