Healthcare Service Utilization and Associated Factors in Elderly - A Review in Asian Countries

Abstract

In the Asian countries, the entry of baby-boomers into old age is a social policy issue . The Council for Economic Planning and Development predicted that elderly (more than 65 y/o) will reach 22.5% by 2028 in Taiwan. The population aged (more than 60 y/o) in China is projected to increase from 13.9 % in 2013 to 32.8 % by 2050 . A Taiwan National Health White Paper (2020) reported that the main factor influencing the higher life span was medical care . From a health perspective, older people tend to spend a greater proportion on health care than other sectors of the population . Thus, improving education or enhancing care services may be needed to ensure that elderly make wise decisions concerning medical care and their health.