Access to Geriatric Disability Care in India: A Roadmap for Research

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Disability Studies
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Global research on access to geriatric disability care is extensive but has notable gaps.
• Existing studies primarily focus on resource availability and common disability types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an ontological review of global research on access to geriatric disability care.
• To propose a research roadmap for addressing access challenges in India.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and ontological analysis of existing literature.
• Identification of research gaps concerning resources, disability types, access modes, and population focus.

Main Results:

• Research predominantly covers human, financial, and spatial resources, neglecting informational and technological aspects.
• Functional disabilities are overrepresented; speech, hearing, and visual disabilities are underrepresented.
• Physical access barriers are emphasized over virtual access and drivers of access.
• Urban and rural populations are primary focuses, with limited attention to underserved and indigenous groups.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in global research on geriatric disability care access.
• A systematic approach is needed to address these gaps, especially in India.
• The study provides a framework and roadmap for future research to enhance access to care.