Geriatric Care Issues: An American and an International Perspective

Prim Care. 2017 Mar;44(1):e15-e36. doi: 10.1016/j.pop.2016.09.018.

Abstract

As the global population ages, there is an opportunity to benefit from the increased longevity of a healthy older adult population. Healthy older individuals often contribute financially to younger generations by offering financial assistance, paying more in taxes than benefits received, and providing unpaid childcare and voluntary work. Governments must address the challenges of income insecurity, access to health care, social isolation, and neglect that currently face elderly adults in many countries. A reduction in disparities in these areas can lead to better health outcomes and allow societies to benefit from longer, healthier lives of their citizens.

Keywords: Alcohol use; Caregiver; Elder abuse; Elderly; Falls; Geriatric; Polypharmacy; Underserved.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Dementia / diagnosis
  • Dementia / therapy
  • Elder Abuse
  • Global Health
  • Health Policy
  • Health Services for the Aged*
  • Hospice Care
  • Humans
  • Quality of Life
  • United States
  • Vulnerable Populations