Author:

• RENATO PEIXOTO VERAS - Veras,Renato P. - Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro - Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Universidade Aberta da Terceira Idade - <veras@uerj.br>

Thematic Area:

Saúde do Idoso

Abstract:

The deep socio-economic transformation occurring in Brazil is driven also by the demographic changes. Health expenditures will increase due to the aging population and increased use of health services. The National Agency for Supplementary Health published a resolution that encourages the participation of beneficiaries in health insurance programs for active aging, with the possibility of discounts in fees. Thus, the elderly now receive cash benefits to adhere to preventive health programs and early detection of diseases. We assessed the programs in the U.S. and UK, analyzing their mistakes and successes, a learning that may enable the formulation of health actions most appropriate for the Brazilian elderly and most cost-effective. This Opinion article seeks to demonstrate to Brazilian operators that it is time to change and to stimulate discussions about the need for new strategies. Creative focus should be directed to the care of the elderly, who are the ones who suffer the effects of their own weakness and demand more health services.

Keywords:

Aging health expenditures health care models health promotion maintenance of functional capacity

Content:

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