The Global Ageing Network recently released a statement providing input on the focus area of long term care and palliative care to the United Nations in preparation for the ninth session of the Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing which is scheduled to take place in July of 2018.

The statement reflects the need for a broader lens on the supports and services accessed by older adults, including the consideration of the vast amount of care provided by informal caregivers. The statement also calls for a concerted focus on older adults’ access to affordable, person-directed care, education for families, the development of a quality workforce, consumer rights and the more widespread use of palliative care to improve the quality of life for older persons with serious illness.