For older people and frail people, the long-term benefit of medicines reduces and the potential for harm from adverse effects increases. When the benefit–risk balance changes in this way, medicine review and optimisation are important to simplify the therapeutic regimen, reduce inappropriate medicines and minimise risks. In this article, pharmacist prescriber Linda Bryant uses two case studies to illustrate important considerations during medicine reviews
Impact of early adversity on clinical assessment and outcomes in later life
Impact of early adversity on clinical assessment and outcomes in later life

This article explores the relationship between childhood adversity, the ability to articulate a coherent story, and getting help in the healthcare system
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1. Santini ZI, Perry B, Marmot M, et al. How a difficult childhood makes it more likely you’ll have mental and physical health problems as an adult. 24 April 2021. https://theconversation.com/how-a-difficult-childhood-makes-it-more-likely-youll-have-mental-and-physical-health-problems-as-an-adult-153154
2. Maunder R, Hunter J. Good storytellers get better health care — but childhood trauma confuses the narrative. 7 July 2021. https://theconversation.com/good-storytellers-get-better-health-care-but-childhood-trauma-confuses-the-narrative-162311
3. Maunder R, Hunter J. Childhood adversity is a ‘cause of causes’ of adult illnesses and mental health problems. 11 February 2022. https://theconversation.com/childhood-adversity-is-a-cause-of-causes-of-adult-illnesses-and-mental-health-problems-176132
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