[Challenges to health research for aging populations using the example of "multimorbidity"]

Abstract

Patterns of morbidity and health care needs are changing as the proportion of the population reaching old age increases. A particular challenge to the health care system results from coexisting health problems (multimorbidity) among the elderly. Regarding prevention and treatment goals, the focus needs to shift from disease-specific outcomes to function in daily life and subjective outcome dimensions, such as self-determination (autonomy), social participation, and quality of life. Health research faces the task of developing prevention and health care models adapted to the needs of specific subgroups of older people. Strengthening personal, social, and organizational resources is crucial. This requires precise knowledge about the development, course, and main determinants of disease processes based on observational epidemiological studies. Strategies need to be tested in intervention and evaluation studies with respect to efficacy, effectiveness, and efficiency. A targeted research funding program "Health in older age" was initiated by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and is currently funding six multimorbidity research consortia, which are briefly presented here.