PREVENTIVE PROGRAMS FOR OLDER-PEOPLE - HOW EFFECTIVE ARE THEY

The purpose of the study is to critically review the empirical evidenc e for the effectiveness of preventive health programs for older people living in the community. A literature review of randomised controlled trials, involving subjects aged predominantly over 65 years, publishe d in the English language, was conducted. The data base MEDLINE produc ed the majority of references. The search yielded 20 randomised contro lled trials. A potential for cost savings and improved health outcomes has been demonstrated. However, given the heterogeneity of studies an d methodological weaknesses, the overall benefit is unclear. It is rec ommended a randomised controlled trial be conducted to test the effect iveness of comprehensive preventive programs for the Australian elderl y.