Assessment of Older People's Health and Social Care Needs and ...

Discussion Points Followingthe Second Session-----------------------------------In the time for discussion following the second session of the Conference, the main points raisedrelated to:• the segregation of older people in society and the health services• travel insurance for people aged 75 years and overfocus on treating the underlying disease• depression in the older population• the use of the word 'dementia'.Segregation of Older PeopleA participant expressed the view that services, including health services, should not be developed ina way that leads to the segregation of older people within the community. A geriatrician in responsenoted that in 1908 the same argument was used against the development of specialist paediatricservices for children. Noting the wider recognition that the general services deal badly with olderpeople's health issues, he strongly advocated specific services for older people.The fact that some older people themselves would prefer to be treated in a generai medical, ratherthan a geriatric medical, ward was also acknowledged. The need for a dialogue with older people'sorganisations on the issue was recognised.Treating the Underlying DiseaseThe focus, in all speakers' presentations, on identifying underlying disease in older people andtreating that appropriately, was welcomed. It was pointed out that current research shows that,contrary to prevailing myths, older people benefit as much as younger people from chemotherapyand that treatments for cancer, blood pressure, osteoporosis and other conditions can make a greatdifference to quality of life in older age.Conference Proceedings