The American Geriatrics Society - News - New and Improved, 2004 <i>Geriatrics at Your Fingertips (GAYF) Released

For Immediate Release
February 6, 2004

For Further Information
Pamela Ingham
(212) 308-1414, ext. 302
Scott Kramer
(212) 308-1414, ext. 329

New and Improved, 2004 Geriatrics at Your Fingertips^TM (GAYF) Released

New York, NY- Entering its sixth year in print and its third online version, Geriatrics at Your Fingertips (GAYF), the indispensable pocket guide to medical care for older adults, has been updated for 2004. This year's version is the most comprehensive and is packed with new information on prescribing, clinical guidelines and other emerging facets of care.

The text integrates the recommendations of recent clinical guidelines, includes a new assessment instrument on medication appropriateness and features prescribing references for medications released as recently as November of last year. In a nod to the growing interest in homeopathic medicine on the part of patients, there is also a new table on common herbal and alternative medications. New sections delve into a multitude of issues ranging from hospital discharge planning to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Editor David Reuben, MD remarked that since its initial release in 1998, "GAYF has helped facilitate judicious and timely care decisions for older adults by countless geriatric care providers across a variety of settings. As in previous years, we have attempted to assess key advances in geriatrics of 2003 and incorporate them with a focus on simplicity and relevance."

In addition to free online access from your PC or Mac, users of personal digital assistants will soon be able to register and download GAY F by visiting www.geriatricsatyourfingertips.org. The standard print version (ISBN 1-4051-0443-0) is available for purchase for $12.95 by calling Blackwell Publishing at (800) 216-2522 or visiting www.blackwellpublishing.com.

Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) is a nationwide, not-for-profit association of geriatrics health care professionals dedicated to improving the health, independence and quality of life of all older people. The society supports this mission through activities in: clinical practice; professional education on the clinical care of older people; research; public education and information; public policy efforts; and through collaborative relationships with other organizations. For more information about AGS programs and initiatives, visit the AGS Web site at www.americangeriatrics.org.