What is the leading cause of hospitalization among older adults in the US?

Heart failure is acknowledged as the leading cause of hospitalization among older adults in the United States due to several interrelated factors. First, the aging population is increasingly diagnosed with heart-related conditions, as cardiovascular diseases are highly prevalent in older individuals. As people age, the risk of developing heart failure rises due to factors such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and previous heart attacks, which contribute to decreased heart function.

Additionally, heart failure is often complex and multifaceted, as it can result in a range of symptoms that require medical attention, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention. This complexity can lead to repeated hospital visits for stabilization and management, particularly since heart failure episodes can exacerbate other comorbid conditions that older adults often have, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or diabetes.

Moreover, the management of heart failure frequently necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, often involving adjustments in medication, dietary modifications, or lifestyle changes. These requirements may lead to hospitalization for monitoring and treatment to ensure patient safety and effective symptom management.

While diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and respiratory failure are also significant health concerns among older adults, they do not surpass heart failure in terms of hospitalization rates. Each of these conditions presents serious health risks and may