Question

Regarding health disparities in communities and specified populations (Seniors/Elderly):

1. What unique health disparities do seniors face and why is it important to address them?

2. What current policies (federal and in your state) hinder and support the access, quality, and cost of health care for seniors?

Answer 1

1. 1.Older adults face their own set of disadvantages including decreased cognitive and physical capabilities,entering into a period of fixed income or having to work at an older age,and experiencing the onset of many diseases that generally come in later age.Addressing disparities in health and health care is important not only from an equity stand point ,but also for improving health more broadly by acheiving improvements in overall quality of care and population health 2. Remove financial barriers to care and supporting expanded insurance coverage and free clinical services ,such as screening programs.   

Work to strengthen safety nets and supports for caregivers to ensure long-term care ,safe housing,and retirement security. Increase access to health care services and recreation by improving public transportation and proting safe ,livable communities.Develop community education programmes led by cultarally-sensitive community health workersthat reach targeted populations.Educate others and broaden the conversations on health disparities to include healthy ageing to influence systems-level change.Implement policies or programs that fight income inequality and the effects of poverty .Re-evaluate and tailor existing policies and programs according to   what barriers may exist for reaching marginalised groups.