Ensuring that older adults receive safe, quality health care is an urgent need. More than 61 million Americans are age 65 or over, and that number is projected to climb to about 95 million by 2060. Many older adults have complex care needs. They may have more than one chronic disease — such as hearing loss, heart disease, cancer, stroke or diabetes — and take multiple medications. Having a chronic condition also puts older adults at greater risk of depression and anxiety.
Hospitals and health system teams are addressing the unique care needs of older adults and helping them age well. Providing evidence-based care to older adults leads to better health outcomes and helps reduce hospital readmissions, decrease length of stay and improve patient and provider satisfaction. Educating care teams and collaborating with community organizations can support whole health for older adults and address loneliness and isolation.
The AHA is committed to advancing the health of all individuals at every life stage in communities across the country.
