Chiropractic Care for Elderly: Collaborate, Integrate, or Stay Independent?

What is it about?

As the global elderly population grows, so does the demand for healthcare services, particularly for musculoskeletal issues. Chiropractic care is increasingly recognized for its benefits, yet scientific literature on chiropractors' experiences treating and managing older patients is limited. We interviewed chiropractors from Great Britain, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden to address this gap. Despite varying healthcare systems, common findings emerged: optimism for future collaborations, concerns about infrastructure, and a belief in chiropractors' ability to serve as primary caregivers for older adults. Challenges like affordability and integration were identified, and participants saw chiropractic as an underutilized resource in managing musculoskeletal complaints among patients 55 years or older. Participants advocate for greater collaboration and integration within national healthcare systems to provide more comprehensive, patient-centered care for older adults.

Why is it important?

This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by exploring the role of chiropractors in managing musculoskeletal issues among older adults, a demographic experiencing rapid growth globally. With aging populations placing increasing demands on healthcare systems, understanding how chiropractic care can contribute to addressing these needs is vital. By interviewing chiropractors across four European countries, this research provides unique insights into common challenges and opportunities in this domain. The study's focus on collaboration, integration, and the potential of chiropractic care to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal complaints among older patients makes it timely and relevant. By highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential benefits of integrating chiropractic into national healthcare systems, this research offers actionable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals alike. This unique perspective is likely to attract readers interested in innovative approaches to elderly care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and healthcare system optimization.

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