Older adults are often excluded from clinical trials, but their inclusion is critical for drug safety

Older adults are frequently left out of clinical trials, despite the fact that many medical conditions affect this demographic more often. This exclusion creates a gap in medical knowledge because medications do not affect all age groups in the same way. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck noted that without older participants in studies, the community is often walking blind regarding how new drugs will interact with aging bodies.

Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board certified physician, advises patients to shift their perspective on what clinical trials offer. Many individuals view trials as a last resort option to be considered only when other treatments have failed. Rogers argues that this view overlooks a major benefit. She stated that one of the biggest advantages is access to tomorrow's medicines today, including devices and therapies that will not be available to the general public for years.

To find a suitable study, Rogers suggested starting with the website ClinicalTrials.gov. Patients can also check with their physicians or look at academic centers. Some organizations specific to certain diseases or conditions run their own studies. The National Institutes of Health maintains a list of clinical trials and indicates which ones compensate participants for their time.

Participation in a trial often comes with perks beyond the potential for a new treatment. Rogers said that many studies cover costs such as gas money. Some trials even pay participants directly. In addition to financial support, participants receive close monitoring and access to medical specialists. This level of care is often more intensive than what is available through standard insurance coverage.

Amy O'Rourke, an aging expert, emphasized the importance of understanding the trial structure before joining. Participants should know that they might receive a placebo rather than the active drug. O'Rourke said that going in with the expectation of receiving the drug can lead to disappointment. She advised that the goal is not necessarily to see if the specific patient gets better, but to contribute to the data that helps others.

O'Rourke observed that many older adults come away from trials feeling hopeful and connected to their community. She noted that clients who joined a local clinical trial group found significant support from social workers. These workers provided access to resources in the community that participants did not previously know about. This social and medical support was a huge value for older participants.

Cradduck addressed the common concern that participants are being treated like guinea pigs. She explained that by the time a drug reaches a clinical trial, it has been thoroughly tested repeatedly. She added that new medicines cannot be approved without these trials. If the medical community wants new medications and new hope for patients, clinical trials are a necessary step in the process.