Systemic underinvestment in geriatric care exacerbates aging population health disparities
Original framing: “There aren’t enough geriatricians – here’s how older adults can still get the right care” — The Conversation - Global
Marginalized older adults, including racial minorities, LGBTQ+ elders, and those in rural or low-income areas, face compounded barriers to accessing quality care. Their voices are often excluded from healthcare policy discussions, despite their unique needs and lived experiences.
The shortage of geriatricians is a symptom of systemic underinvestment in elder care, rooted in historical neglect, cultural biases, and structural inequities.
Indigenous and cross-cultural models of elder care offer alternative frameworks that emphasize community and holistic well-being, which are often ignored in Western systems. Scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of interdisciplinary and community-based care, but implementation is hindered by financial and policy barriers. Future planning must include marginalized voices and integrate traditional knowledge to create sustainable, equitable elder care systems. Without systemic reform, aging populations will continue to face health disparities and inadequate care.