England’s chief medical officer, Prof Chris Whitty, is calling for a shift in the way medicine is practiced, advocating for more realistic conversations with older patients about the benefits and risks of various treatments. In his 2023 annual report, Whitty emphasizes the importance of prioritizing quality of life in old age over simply extending lifespan, and argues that sometimes “less medicine, not more” is the best approach.
Whitty urges doctors to have candid discussions with patients about the potential side effects of treatments and the impact they may have on their independence and overall quality of life. He also encourages families to engage in conversations with older relatives about health choices, such as the extent to which they would want medical interventions to be escalated in an emergency.
The report also highlights the demographic timebomb faced by rural and coastal communities, where populations are projected to age more rapidly than those in urban areas. Areas such as the Isle of Wight and North Norfolk are expected to see a significant increase in their older populations in the next 20 years, presenting challenges in terms of healthcare, housing, and transport infrastructure.
Whitty suggests that the expansion of medical schools and training opportunities should happen in areas with rapidly ageing populations to attract more healthcare professionals to these regions. He also emphasizes the importance of individuals taking steps to extend their healthy lifespan, including quitting smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, having a balanced diet, and exercising.
Additionally, the report criticizes the systematic exclusion of older adults from clinical trials and medical research, and highlights health inequalities, particularly in more deprived areas. Paul Farmer, the chief executive of Age UK, has welcomed the report, emphasizing the need for politicians and policymakers to make the task of adapting to the realities of an ageing population a priority.
Whitty’s report serves as a call to action for a more nuanced and thoughtful approach to healthcare for older individuals, urging a shift away from simply extending lifespan toward improving the quality and independence of life in old age.