Advancing healthy ageing in Greece: the WHO ICOPE protocol within the JA PreventNCD framework

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Implementation Science

Background:

• The World Health Organization's Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) program promotes healthy aging but lacks widespread clinical application.
• Healthcare professionals require structured training to effectively utilize the ICOPE approach in practice.
• This study protocol is part of the European project JA PreventNCD, focusing on ICOPE implementation in Greece.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a strategy for implementing the ICOPE framework in Greece.
• To enhance healthcare professionals' skills in detecting intrinsic capacity decline and functional loss.
• To establish a national dataset on intrinsic capacity in Greek older adults for policy informing.

Main Methods:

• A prospective longitudinal study involving theoretical and practical training for ~75 healthcare professionals.
• Recruitment of ≥200 older adults (≥60 years) for ICOPE Step 1 and Step 2 assessments.
• 24-month biannual assessments, individualized care planning, and data collection via a digital platform.

Main Results:

• Expected to enhance healthcare professional competencies in early detection of age-related decline.
• Will generate the first Greek national dataset on intrinsic capacity trajectories.
• Findings will assess the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of ICOPE in Greece.

Conclusions:

• This protocol outlines the first structured effort to integrate the WHO ICOPE model into the Greek healthcare system.
• The initiative combines professional training, community assessment, and digital documentation.
• Aims to strengthen person-centered care, prevent dependency, and align national policies with global standards.