The contribution of geriatric medicine to integrated care for older people

Aims: to describe contribution of geriatric medicine to the development of integrated care for older people and to suggest future directions for the further development of integrated care for older people. Methods: literature review and case studies. Results: geriatricians have made a significant contribution to the development of integrated care for older people. The feasibility of this approach has been shown in demonstration projects. Although there is only limited evidence from randomised controlled trials, integrated care seems likely to be beneficial. There is an opportunity to develop new approaches to integrated care for older people in prevention and provision of community alternatives to hospital care. Conclusion: the principles and practice of geriatric medicine have been shown to underpin the successful development of integrated care for older people and should continue to do so as new challenges emerge.