It seems that when senior citizens reach the age of 80, the healthcare industry is no longer interested in them. Just look at the guidelines for many topics in the realm of preventive medicine; after age 80, the guidelines cease or recommend you consult with your doctor for further preventive care. Examples are colonoscopies that stop after age 75, PSA’s that are optional after age 80 (they are really discouraged), and the uncertain value of statins after age 80.
What is it about turning 80 that converts medical experts into therapeutic and preventive medicine nihilists? They lose interest in their patients’ health status and longevity, and it’s suddenly no longer worth making an effort to keep them healthy. Well, I’m 82, and I disagree. I still care if I get prostate cancer, colon cancer, or have a heart attack. Those things can be fatal, and despite being spiritually ready for the hereafter, I’m happy to remain on earth and in good health for awhile longer. I want to do what I can to remain healthy.
One of the most impactful things medical science has developed in the last fifty years is HMG CoA Reductase Inhibitors, ie. Statins. So much good has been achieved by the inclusion of statins in therapeutic regimens that I have declared they “should be in the water.” I still think they should be. I also think they should still be taken after age 80 for as long as they exhibit benefit and are not causing adverse effects.
To substantiate this opinion, I cite the results of a study from Israel involving 15,725 patients, mean age 84.5 years, who do not have prior evidence of cardiovascular disease. Over half (8413) were on a statin drug, less the half (7332) were not. The groups were observed for a mean time of 4 years, looking specifically for death by any cause, new coronary disease events, myopathy (a statin side effect), dementia, and diabetes.
The GOOD news for those of us over age 80 is that
Statin use was associated with 31% fewer deaths from any cause.
AND
Statin use was associated with 20% fewer new coronary disease events.
Statins make a difference in patients even after age 80. “Statin treatment improves clinical outcomes even in patients older than 80 years of age.”
Benefits were not observed in patients who discontinued statins before age 80. You had to remain on a statin to benefit. No differences were observed in the incidence of myopathy, dementia, or diabetes.
Dr. G’s Opinion: This is a “hallelujah” moment for 80+ year olds like me and many of you. It proves it’s ok to take a statin after age 80. There is now proof they help with primary prevention—preventing first time cardiovascular events—even if you happen to be older than the healthcare industry recognizes!
References: Lavon O, Hamodi W, Kassel S. Statin Therapy for Primary Prevention and Clinical Outcomes in Adults Aged 80 and Older: A Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study. J Am Ger Soc 2026 March 7;74(3):
