Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
-
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has been practiced since 1960. In mixed-age populations there is about a 10 per cent survival rate. Most CPR studies state that "age alone" is not a critical factor in survival. ⋯ The available data suggest that CPR is suitable for the independent and relatively well elderly to whom CPR measures can be quickly applied. For the chronically dependent and ill elderly, CPR in most instances should not be undertaken. Such an eventuality, however, should be anticipated and whenever possible discussed with patients and family members, thus allowing decisions to be made consciously rather than leaving them "to chance."