The uses of epidemiology in the study of the elderly : report of a WHO Scientific Group on the Epidemiology of Aging [meeting held in Geneva from 11 to 17 January 1983]

Abstract

An expert report on the age structure of populations in countries at different stages of the epidemiological transition . Discussion centers on the implications for health services of the changing patterns of morbidity and disability among those over 65 years of age. Factors identified as contributing to the health and autonomy of this age group include lifestyle, marital status, family support, occupation and income, living conditions, and the availability of health services. Other sections identify indicators of possible use in the measurement of degree of health, autonomy, and disability. The report concludes with a number of proposals for the use of epidemiological research as a tool for acquiring the knowledge needed to improve the health and well-being of the elderly