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Ethical aspects in gerontology and geriatrics

Publication at Faculty of Humanities |
2023

Abstract

Ongoing demographic changes have a significant impact on healthcare and social systems, particularly in the realm of geriatric care. Providing care for elderly patients poses numerous challenges, including ethical implications associated with their specific care and support needs.

This paper focuses on the ethical considerations stemming from the health needs, vulnerability and frailty of geriatric patients, along with the importance of safeguarding their dignity. As aging leads to a progressive decline in functional reserves and decreased capacity to cope with stress, elderly patients are especially vulnerable.

Ensuring dignified healthcare for geriatric patients that is in compliance with ethical principles, as well as adapting the healthcare system to meet the demands of demographic changes, are becoming essential ethical priorities that require our utmost attention and need to be competently addressed.