Improving and Extending Quality of Life Among Older Americans (part 2)

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CDC

Critical Opportunities To Improve Older Adults' Health and Quality of Life
Our increased understanding of the critical factors involved in protecting and promoting the health of older adults has identified emerging public health issues that need to be addressed, such as the following:

•Promote an up-to-date measure for clinical preventive services. Population-based data on the use of preventive services recommended for older adults, such as immunizations and regular health screenings, are currently monitored individually. A composite measure would better promote the services, improve data collection, and more effectively guide policy.

•Address depression. Depression affects nearly 7 million older adults, but many do not receive treatment. Community-based strategies to effectively screen and treat older adults should be more widely disseminated.

•Promote caregiving interventions. In 2004, about 34 million people were providing unpaid care for adult family members, friends, or neighbors aged 50 years or older. This number will increase dramatically as baby boomers reach older age. A key public health goal is to translate policies and strategies known to improve caregiver health and well-being into widespread practice.

•Address end-of-life issues. What most people want at the end of their lives is well-documented—to die, as pain-free as possible, at home with family present and to have their wishes honored. However, many people are not allowed “to die with dignity.” In response, public health aims to raise awareness about the value of end-of-life planning and ensure that individuals and their families have appropriate guidance and information.