CHRONIC DISEASE AND AGING: From Research to Policy to Practice

An International Dialogue

Meeting the Challenge in the

Quebec Healthcare System

Quebec and its healthcare system are facing two major challenges which are inextricably related.

Quebec’s population is aging very rapidly with the most dramatic increases in the number of “old, old” persons (over 80 years old). Chronic disease throughout the life course has a significant impact on the aging process and is most prevalent in later years. The cumulative effect of chronic disease throughout the life course and the age-related decline in physiological reserves contribute to the onset of frailty, disability and dependency in the aging population, and it is widely recognized that chronic disease is the most important cause of illness and mortality burden. In fact, chronic disease has become the leading driver of healthcare resource utilization and constitutes an important burden for our society.

Aging and chronic disease are therefore two key issues in the challenge to improve the health of the Quebec population, delay the onset of frailty and dependency, and promote independent and healthy aging. It can be said, without exaggeration, that both the health and quality of life of older persons in the coming 50 years, as well as the sustainability of our healthcare system, depend on our ability to meet these challenges.

This international symposium will bring together decision and policy makers, researchers, healthcare managers and professionals, and members of the public to discuss how the Quebec healthcare system can best meet these challenges in light of the international experience and that of other Canadian provinces.

See attached poster for details.