Universal care under strain: navigating population ageing in Europe

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Europe faces a healthcare delivery capacity challenge due to its ageing population.
• Increased longevity brings multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and functional limitations, especially in rural areas with limited infrastructure.
• Therapeutic innovations promise extended healthy ageing but will heighten demand for coordinated care and data interoperability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a European Union agenda for addressing the healthcare challenges of an ageing population.
• To propose actionable strategies for improving care delivery and integration within a 24-36 month timeframe.

Main Methods:

• This perspective paper synthesizes current trends and proposes a strategic agenda.
• It focuses on policy recommendations and service delivery models for long-term care.

Main Results:

• The proposed agenda includes professionalizing the long-term care workforce.
• Key recommendations involve embedding pharmacist-led medication reviews and expanding home/step-down care options.
• Routine implementation of shared discharge summaries, medication lists, and care plans across settings is advocated.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the healthcare capacity challenge requires a multi-faceted approach focusing on workforce, medication management, and care coordination.
• Implementing the proposed EU agenda can enhance care delivery for Europe's ageing population.