In: Psychology
Prepare a 350 word paper describing how the concept "compression of morbidity” may change the way in which health care for the elderly is delivered.
Morbidity relates to any physical or psychological condition, which hampers the normal living or well-being of an individual. The term relates to illness, impairment, deterioration of health and chronic and age-related diseases, which tend to become severe over time. It is important to note that the higher the morbidity, the shorter is the lifespan.
Compression of morbidity relates to a hypothesis forwarded by James Fries, professor of medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine. The hypothesis suggests that the span of a chronic illness can be compressed into a shorter period, before the time of death, provided the age of commencement of the first chronic infirmity can be delayed. The theory aims to increase life expectancy, by having shorter illnesses, later in life. This is possible via preventive measures (like regular check-ups, adequate exercise, and healthy diet) and medical and lifestyle interventions. Thus, compression of morbidity can help the elderly live a healthier and longer life.
There have been improvements in education, and the availability of adaptive and latest technologies and medical treatments can enhance the quality of life and foster continued independence of the elderly. Thus, the elderly can indulge in preventive measures and medical and lifestyle interventions to delay mortality. Changes in health care services and the concept of compression of morbidity run parallel to each other. The concept promotes the best possible utilization of advancement in the field of medicine, technology, and health care services. It also promotes the importance given to health care in framing the national budget. It promotes health care costs to cover areas like the establishment of medical and technological institutes and research and development in the relevant fields of health care, to help the elderly lead a comfortable and healthy life.