Quality care among aging Americans

The unique needs of many elderly Americans are often not heard. However, in the face of an ever-growing aging population, clinicians are more actively planning healthcare for older adults across practice settings. This article examines the home care needs of elderly patients who wish for care, but not aggressive, acute care. The author reviews bioethical considerations that apply to elderly individuals and groups and presents suggestions to promote quality care that is ethically sound. This article also describes clinicians' obligation to identify what quality care means to the very old person and explains the deficiency model of aging along with its impact on medical intervention.