Today is the International Day of Older Persons. The world is home to more than 1 billion people over age 60, and two years ago the global number of people over age 65 surpassed that of children under age 5 for the first time in history. These numbers confirm a clear and irreversible trend: the world is aging, and Latin America is the region currently aging the quickest. This … [Read more...] about New Simulation Tool Calculates Investment Needed to Support Care-Dependent Older People.
Aging at home: the preferred option of older adults
People prefer to age at home, in a familiar setting, and surrounded, when possible, by their belongings and closest relatives and friends. This is not only a matter of personal preference. The World Health Organization highlights the importance of the context in determining the effects of aging on health: aging at home increases confidence levels, independence, and … [Read more...] about Aging at home: the preferred option of older adults
The COVID-19 vaccine: when, how, and at what price?
It is no news that we are all looking forward to the COVID-19 vaccine. But to believe that finding one - or several - vaccines will be the panacea and immediately end the pandemic is a mistake. Three fundamental questions explain why the vaccine does not provide an immediate solution. The first and most obvious, the date: when will the vaccine be ready? The second question is … [Read more...] about The COVID-19 vaccine: when, how, and at what price?
Business as Unusual or Back-to-the-Future: COVID-19 and Healthcare System Integration
COVID-19 has upended health systems globally, with uncertain implications for the future of healthcare and beyond. What is certain, however, is that all healthcare systems undoubtedly face a “new normal” in their journey to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) and become more resilient to future stresses. Yet, without also addressing chronic stresses, particularly … [Read more...] about Business as Unusual or Back-to-the-Future: COVID-19 and Healthcare System Integration
Listen to Me, Protect Me, Prepare Me, Support Me, and Care for Me: Health Personnel Need More than Applause
In many countries, large-scale initiatives are under way to pay tribute and thank health personnel for their heroic work in the diagnosis, care, and follow-up of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. These expressions of gratitude and admiration are undoubtedly an important source of motivation for health personnel, but true support goes beyond just applause. Comprehensive … [Read more...] about Listen to Me, Protect Me, Prepare Me, Support Me, and Care for Me: Health Personnel Need More than Applause