Public Health Nutrition Programs for the Elderly: Epidemiological Basis

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe aim of this review is to check the epidemiological foundations for the design and conceptualization of global healthy aging public policies with an emphasis in Latin America and the Caribbean.Recent FindingsThe differences in ages and abilities within the elderly group and the inequalities in the economic, behavioral, personal, social, health care, and environmental determinants influence their life expectancy and especially the expectation of healthy life. Overall, the poorest die and get sick earlier and the majority of deaths in low-income countries occurred before the age of 70. Accessing protection programs without being isolated is a challenging barrier faced by those who have limited resources to cope with decreased functionality and loss of autonomy.SummaryIn Latin America as well as in other regions, reaching the objectives of sustainable development requires the active participation of those over 60. Guaranteeing the coverage of basic needs, as well as access to universal and sustainable social, nutritional, legal, health care, and environmental protection systems, is key within the framework of a specific public policies for the elderly population.
Source: Current Geriatrics Reports - Category: Geriatrics Source Type: research