The needs of the elderly. A short review

The ageing process eventually affects us all with varying degrees of physical or intellectual deficit or both. A deeper understanding of the problems involved caused by this progressive physiological decline is necessary through education, assessment and application. Programs of rehabilitation for the elderly should attract a higher priority as much undiscovered morbidity remains. These require accurate needs targeting and implementation. Undergraduate participation in rehabilitation programs should figure much more prominently, particularly as the majority of medical students will eventually become general practitioners.