The risks of sub-optimal medicines use in older people can have a greater impact on their health outcomes and on the NHS than for other groups of patients. All pharmacy team members need to take a person-centred approach, support shared decision making and use the best available evidence to help provide the best possible health outcomes.

A person-centred approach

Person-centred care is about ensuring that the care provided for each person takes into account their knowledge, beliefs, culture and values. Patients are equal partners in the decision-making process and this is no different for the majority of older people. They want to be involved in making choices about their medicines for as long as they are able.

Shared decision making

There may be occasions when there is more than one treatment option with comparable outcomes. In these situations, understanding a person's values and preferences is even more important to help them make an informed choice. Using a consultation style that involves shared decision making means that you can support the patient to make the best decision for them.

You should assume that older people are competent to make decisions and give consent unless there is evidence to suggest otherwise. For some older people, shared decision making may not be possible due to capacity concerns. If this is the case, the patient's family or carers should be involved.