National Agenda for Geriatric Education: White Papers. Volume 1

摘要

Current age graphing of the U.S. population follows the rise of the large bubble of baby boomers toward old age. The aging of this generation in particular is precipitating a review by many societal institutions as to the readiness of the country to meet the late life needs of this population. The preparedness of the nation's health professions to provide geriatric primary and long term care in an effective and efficient manner within a rapidly changing health care environment is also under scrutiny. The need for adequately trained health care providers is urgent. At present no health care profession meets the minimum number of geriatrically trained personnel necessary to adequately meet the unique health care needs of the elderly. The numbers of persons with functional limitations, Alzheimer's Disease or other dementing illness is increasing and health professionals must be prepared to find new and better ways to prevent or treat these and many other conditions that steal personal independence and rob approximately one of every five older Americans of productive, satisfying lives. An invitational National Forum on Geriatric Education and Training, was held in the spring of 1995, and brought together experts in geriatric education and funders, providers, consumers, health professions educators and policy makers. Their purpose was to set a national agenda for action on geriatric education for all those who provide health care for older adults. In preparation for that task, these White Papers were developed by Study Groups. The White Papers were affirmed by the Forum attendees.