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Research Paper | Medical Science | Volume 15 Issue 2, February 2026 | Pages: 1012 - 1017 | India
Clinical Profile and Outcomes of ARDS in Elderly vs Non-Elderly: A Prospective Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in the elderly is associated with increased morbidity and mortality due to age-related physiological changes and comorbidities. This study investigates the clinical profile, management, and outcomes of ARDS in elderly patients compared to non-elderly. Objectives: To compare the demographic and clinical characteristics (etiology, CCI, ARDS severity) and outcomes (ICU stay and in-hospital mortality) of ARDS between elderly (?65 years) and non-elderly (<65 years) patients. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over two years in a tertiary care center. A total of 138 patients diagnosed with ARDS were enrolled and divided into elderly (?65 years) and non-elderly (<65 years) groups. Parameters studied included demographics, comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index), etiology, severity (SOFA score, Berlin criteria), ventilatory support, and outcomes (mortality, ICU stay). Results: The elderly group (n=72) had significantly higher CCI scores (3.5 vs 2.4, p<0.001) and SOFA scores at admission (8.2 vs 6.3, p=0.001). Sepsis was the predominant cause in the elderly (38.9%), while pneumonia was more frequent in non-elderly (60.6%). Elderly patients had poorer respiratory mechanics (higher PIP, PEEP, and plateau pressures, p<0.001). Mortality was higher among elderly with severe ARDS and multiple comorbidities. ICU stay was similar across groups. Conclusion: ARDS in the elderly presents with more severe disease, higher comorbidity burden, and worse outcomes. Age-specific management strategies are essential to improve survival and quality of life in this vulnerable group.
Keywords: ARDS, elderly, SOFA score, Charlson Comorbidity Index, ICU mortality
How to Cite?: Pranav Nagpure, Deepti P. Deshmukh, Pathipaka Divya, Shreenidhi Govindarajan, "Clinical Profile and Outcomes of ARDS in Elderly vs Non-Elderly: A Prospective Observational Study", Volume 15 Issue 2, February 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1012-1017, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26216170636, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26216170636