In recent years, the importance of age-friendly health systems has come into sharp focus as societies around the globe prepare for the challenges and opportunities presented by an aging population. Age-friendly health systems work to improve care for older adults. They focus on what matters most to them—enhancing safety, independence and quality of life.
Gero at FranU dedicates itself to advancing the well-being of older adults through education, research and advocacy. As part of our commitment to promoting healthy aging, we are proud to be designated as part of the Age-Friendly University Global Network. This recognition underscores our dedication to creating an inclusive environment for people of all ages while addressing the unique needs of an aging population.
The Case for Age-Friendly Health Systems
Age-friendly health systems are designed to address the challenges older adults face in navigating complex healthcare environments. Rooted in the “4Ms” framework, these systems prioritize:
- What Matters: Ensuring older adults’ preferences and goals drive care decisions.
- Medications: Avoiding medications that interfere with mobility, cognition or personal goals.
- Mentation: Preventing, identifying and managing issues such as depression, delirium and dementia.
- Mobility: Promoting safe movement to maintain independence and prevent falls.
This approach goes beyond treating symptoms—it’s about fostering independence, dignity and respect for the whole person. By focusing on these elements, age-friendly health systems provide care that meets the needs of older adults and supports their overall well-being.
The Role of Academia in Advancing Age-Friendly Health Systems
The shift toward healthy aging systems isn’t just happening in hospitals and clinics. Academic institutions play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare. They do this by preparing the next generation of leaders, practitioners and researchers. Through this partnership, we are part of a global movement to create educational environments that:
- Value the contributions of older adults.
- Equip students to meet the needs of aging populations.
- Foster research that drives meaningful change in healthcare systems.
Gero at FranU: A Hub for Healthy Aging Innovation
Our work with the Age-Friendly University Global Network boosts our efforts to connect education and practice. By integrating these principles into our programs, we are empowering students and faculty to champion initiatives that enhance the quality of life for older adults.
At Gero, we are:
- Advancing Research: Our faculty and students engage in projects that explore innovative ways to improve care for older adults.
- Developing Leaders: Through our gerontology program, we prepare students to lead the charge in creating age-friendly environments across healthcare and community settings.
- Building Awareness: We are committed to educating the public and our academic community about the importance of embracing healthy aging practices.
A Shared Vision for a Better Future
The partnership between Gero at FranU and the Age-Friendly University Global Network is more than a recognition of our efforts—it’s a call to action. Together, we are building a future that empowers older adults to thrive. We are helping to make age-friendly health systems the standard, not the exception.
As we work toward these goals, we invite you to join us in promoting the principles of healthy aging. Through education and advocacy, we all play a role in creating a world where people of all ages feel valued and respected.
Learn more about Gero at FranU and our initiatives to promote healthy aging through education, research and community engagement. Together, we can advance the age-friendly movement and build a brighter future for all.