The aging veteran population: Promoting awareness to influence best practices

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Veterans Health
• Public Health

Background:

• The older adult population is rapidly expanding, with adults over 65 projected to outnumber children by 2035.
• Approximately 11 million Veterans are expected to be aged 60 and older.
• Older adults, particularly Veterans, often have complex, high-risk chronic conditions requiring specialized care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the need for a holistic approach in caring for aging Veterans.
• To highlight the importance of considering culture and military service in healthcare.
• To advocate for integrated, collaborative care models tailored to older Veterans' needs.

Main Methods:

• This study emphasizes a conceptual and evidence-based approach.
• It reviews existing literature on geriatric care and Veterans' health.
• The focus is on the necessity of tailored healthcare strategies.

Main Results:

• Aging Veterans present unique multifocal and complex health care needs.
• A holistic approach considering military service and cultural factors is crucial.
• Current healthcare models may not fully address the specific requirements of this demographic.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need to promote awareness and education on best practices for aging Veterans.
• Integrated and collaborative care models are essential for achieving realistic health goals.
• Specialized attention to the unique needs of the aging Veteran population is paramount.