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[Towards a more humane care for the elderly. Ethical reflection]

J M van den Boer-van den Berg¹

¹Klinisch Genetisch Centrum, Rotterdam en Leiden.

Tijdschrift Voor Gerontologie En Geriatrie

|April 4, 1998

Summary

As the elderly population grows, focusing on the values and goals of elder care is crucial. True progress in elder care involves prioritizing human connection, offering time, attention, and interest to older adults.

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Area of Science:

Gerontology
Bioethics
Sociology of Aging

Context:

The global elderly population is rapidly increasing, necessitating a re-evaluation of care strategies.
Current discussions on elder care predominantly focus on resource allocation and financial constraints.
A critical need exists to reflect on the underlying values and objectives guiding elder care practices.

Purpose:

To explore and discuss potential goals for elder care beyond merely extending lifespan.
To question the desirability of 'living as long as possible' versus 'aging healthily'.
To examine the ethical considerations and motivations behind current elder care objectives, such as maintaining activity and self-support.

Summary:

The article critiques the goal of maximizing lifespan in elder care, highlighting the potential for increased morbidity.
It questions whether focusing on health care for the elderly is 'too late' if the aim is healthy aging.
The core argument advocates for a moral advancement in elder care, emphasizing the profound need for human connection: time, attention, and interest.

Impact:

Promotes a shift in perspective from resource-centric to value-driven approaches in elder care.
Encourages a deeper ethical reflection on the aims and outcomes of caring for the aging population.
Highlights the essential, yet often overlooked, non-material needs of the elderly, such as social interaction and emotional support.

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