Health care for elderly persons - myths and realities

Article Abstract:

The best way to reduce rising Medicare costs may be to change the program so it promotes primary care and long-term care rather than acute care in a hospital. The US government paid $154 billion in Medicare benefits in 1993 and it is estimated that Medicare Part A, which covers hospitalizations, will be bankrupt by 2001. A 1995 study found that increased Medicare payments to 65-year-olds in the year 2020 will result from the greater numbers of 65-year-olds, not from an increase in longevity. The study also found that fewer Medicare dollars are spent on the very old in the last years of their life than on younger elderly people. This may occur because doctors are less likely to initiate expensive treatments in the very old. People at any age should be assessed for functional disabilities and treated in a primary care or long-term care setting.

Social aspects, Economic aspects, Medical care, Cost of, Health care costs, Health care reform

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Geriatrics, prevention, and the remodeling of Medicare

Article Abstract:

Congress should revamp the Medicare program so it focuses more on preventive medicine. A 1999 study found that the incidence of delirium in elderly hospital patients could be reduced 40% by appropriate preventive measures. The Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), which administers Medicare, wants to improve the health of beneficiaries. This could be accomplished by making exercise, nutrition, and smoking cessation programs eligible for Medicare reimbursement. HCFA could allow people who enroll in these programs to pay smaller premiums. More focus on preventive medicine could actually save money and ensure the survival of Medicare.

Finance, Preventive medicine, Medicine, Preventive

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Hip protectors -- a breakthrough in fracture prevention

Article Abstract:

Two separate studies have shown that elderly patients who wear a hip protector can reduce their risk of hip fracture from falls by about 50%. One study found that the rate of hip fracture per fall was 84% lower when the protector was worn.

Prevention, Protection and preservation, Fractures (Injuries), Fractures, Hip joint, Hip fractures, Hip

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