New Book Reveals 50 Years of Progress in Elder Care
Northwell Health published a groundbreaking book that exposes decades of medical discrimination against older Americans.
Authors Challenge Healthcare Bias
Three authors collaborated on this critical healthcare analysis:
- Michael Dowling - Northwell Health President and CEO
- Charles Kenney - Experienced healthcare author
- Dr. Maria Torroella Carney - Chief of geriatrics and palliative medicine
The book credits Dr. Robert Butler, a pioneering gerontologist who exposed medical bias against seniors 50 years ago.
Medical System Failed Older Patients
Before the 1970s, doctors treated senior pain as normal aging.
Physicians ignored multiple chronic conditions in elderly patients. Many saw suffering as unavoidable in older adults.
This systemic discrimination led to poor healthcare outcomes for millions of Americans over 65.
Social Movements Created Change
Healthcare advocates launched campaigns that transformed elder care since the 1970s.
These movements achieved remarkable results:
- Extended life expectancy for seniors
- Improved quality of life for aging adults
- Reduced discrimination in medical settings
- Created specialized geriatric training programs
America Still Faces Healthcare Shortages
Despite progress, the United States lacks enough specialists for its aging population.
Current gaps include:
- Primary care physicians trained in elder care
- Geriatricians who understand complex chronic conditions
- Healthcare workers specializing in senior needs
Aging Population Creates Urgent Need
Statistics reveal the scope of America's aging challenge:
- 62 million adults currently age 65 and older
- Seniors represent 18 percent of total population
- Projections show 84 million seniors by 2054
- Elder population will reach 23 percent by 2054
This demographic shift requires immediate healthcare planning.
Why This Book Matters Now
Healthcare leaders must understand geriatric medicine history to build better systems.
The book provides blueprints for addressing current healthcare shortages.
Readers learn practical solutions for improving elder care quality.
Key Takeaways for Healthcare Professionals
Medical professionals can apply these lessons immediately:
- Recognize age bias in treatment decisions
- Address multiple chronic conditions comprehensively
- Understand what matters most to older patients
- Advocate for specialized geriatric training
- Plan for population aging trends
Publisher and Availability
Skyhorse Publishing released The Aging Revolution for healthcare professionals and policy makers.
The book serves as both historical record and practical guide for improving senior care.
Healthcare systems nationwide can use these insights to prepare for America's aging future.
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