Atrial fibrillation in the elderly

The prevalence of atrial fibrillation is 11% in per sons older than 70 years and rises to 17% in those aged 84 years or more. One-year mortality ranges from 0.2 to 16%, being highest in elderly patients, and is associated with a 4.8-fold increased risk of stroke. Atrial fibrillation can be cardioverted to normal sinus rhythm electrically or pharmacologically and rapid ventricular rate can be controlled with drugs. While anticoagulation prevents embolic events in those with atrial fibrillation, the decision to anticoagulate should be based on an assessment of the risk/benefit ratio.