Sustaining Home, Navigating Crisis: An Interdisciplinary Narrative Review of Aging in Place and Emergency Care Networks
Abstract
Background: The global demographic shift toward an aging population has intensified the policy and clinical imperative to support "aging in place"—enabling older adults to live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible. This goal exists in tension with the high risk of acute health crises, such as falls and sudden illness, in this population. Aim: This narrative review aims to synthesize evidence from epidemiology, sociology, and frontline clinical services (EMS, nursing, pharmacy, administration) to examine the complex interplay between supporting independent living and managing emergency care for older adults. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Sociological Abstracts (2010-2024). Results: The review identifies epidemiological patterns of geriatric emergencies, the critical sociological role of social networks and isolation in risk and recovery, and describes evolving frontline interventions. These include EMS community paramedicine for proactive visits, nursing-led care transition programs, pharmacist-led medication management, and medical secretary coordination of home-based services. Significant gaps in system integration and persistent social determinants of health are highlighted. Conclusion: Effective support for aging in place requires a transformed, integrated network that blends preventive, community-based supports with responsive, geriatrically-informed emergency care. Success depends on breaking down silos between public health, social services, and acute care, and formally embedding roles for EMS, pharmacy, and administrative coordination within community care teams.
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References
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2024 Abdullah Mohammed Saad Almutairi, Fatimah Mohammed Nasser Bahri, Mohammed Ayidh Mohammed Alzahrani, Reem Matook Al Saadi, Shagraa Han Sufyani, Mashael Mutlaq N Alotaibi, Noha Abdullah Alanazi, Abdulkarim Saeed Duwaynih Aladhyani, Amna Ali Mahnashi, Jazaa Hulayil Jazaa Al-Osaimi, Fatimah Abdulaziz Ali Asiri, Nasser Hammad Mohamad
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