Managing long-term conditions in older people

The number of people who are living to older age is growing. In England, there are approximately 11 million people aged over 65 years, with this figure predicted to increase. The age group growing the fastest is ≥85 years, which is expected to increase by 67.8% between 2024 and 2044. With older age comes a higher risk of frailty, and of developing multiple long-term conditions. These conditions can lead to disability and often have a negative, reciprocal impact on an older person's physical and mental health. This article discusses the care of older people with long-term conditions, including the management of frailty, disability, medication and loneliness.