Detecting heart problems among the elderly is of great importance. Echocardiography is a highly effective method that provides important information about the heart by taking images of the heart with ultrasound waves and helps in this process. A study published in the journal PLoS One in 2022 examined the utility of echocardiography in detecting structural and functional heart abnormalities in older people over the age of 70 and at risk of heart disease. In one study, two different groups of 1441 and 944 elderly people over the age of 70 and with risk factors for heart disease (hypertension, diabetes, heart failure or stroke) were examined. Participants underwent a comprehensive echocardiographic examination. The results showed that structural changes and dysfunctions of the heart are quite common. For example, changes in the left ventricle (part of the heart) occur in 40%, calcification of the mitral valve in 39% and stiffening of the aortic valve (sometimes leading to narrowing) in 27%. In addition, the study detected 27% impaired filling of the heart and 18% impaired contractile movements of the heart. This study shows that echocardiography is an important tool that can be used to detect heart problems in the elderly. With this method, it may be possible to reduce the risk of heart disease with early diagnosis and treatment. Echocardiography can help both doctors and patients learn about heart health. It is therefore of great importance for the elderly to use echocardiography to detect and prevent heart problems early.
