Geriatric anaesthesia

Abstract

Elderly is defined as anyone over 65 years of age.¹ This definition was created more than 100 years ago by Prince Bismarck of the German Empire who chose this date as being just out of reach for the average citizen to achieve and become eligible for a state pension.¹ Presently a further distinction is made into “young old” from 65–74 years, “middle old” from 75–84 years and “old old” from 85 years and up.¹ Healthy life expectancy has increased significantly over the last century, particularly in developed countries. This has prompted gerontologists to call for a new definition of elderly as being people over 75 years.¹ There is massive pushback against this though from unions and social groups, who fear that people will lose social benefits such as financial support, bus ticket discounts, etc. Another current school of thought suggests creating an “ageless” society where the elderly are defined according to health status alone, which would allow healthy chronologically older people to continue working as long as they are willing and able.