Core Insights - The "Second Forum on Building Longevity Medical Development" was held in Nanjing, China, co-hosted by Taikang Medical and Mount Sinai Health System, focusing on new medical models for aging societies and the development of geriatric medicine in China and the U.S. [1][14] - The forum gathered renowned experts from both countries to discuss the integration of geriatric care, talent development, and innovative medical practices to enhance the quality of geriatric healthcare in China [1][14]. Group 1: Geriatric Medicine Development - The aging population necessitates a new healthcare system that integrates specialized and primary care to address complex medical needs of elderly patients [3][7]. - Geriatric medicine should not only focus on treating diseases but also on fundamental research related to aging and improving the healthcare experience for the elderly [5][11]. - The shortage of geriatric specialists and the need for leadership training in medical education are critical issues that need to be addressed [7][11]. Group 2: Collaborative Models and Innovations - The ALIGN-CARE model from Mount Sinai emphasizes collaborative management among healthcare teams, leading to better surgical outcomes and higher satisfaction for patients and families [9]. - The forum included discussions on creating an integrated geriatric care system and the importance of payment and incentive mechanisms to support this development [13][14]. - Taikang Medical is leveraging international experiences to enhance its geriatric medicine strategy, focusing on a comprehensive service model that integrates various aspects of elderly care [14][16]. Group 3: Strategic Initiatives by Taikang Medical - Taikang Medical has identified geriatric medicine as one of its five strategic focus areas, aiming to build a robust academic and service framework for elderly care [14][16]. - The establishment of the first geriatric emergency center in China, modeled after Mount Sinai's standards, highlights Taikang's commitment to improving emergency care for elderly patients [15][16]. - The integration of health screening, chronic disease management, and multidisciplinary treatment is part of Taikang's initiative to create a seamless care system for the elderly [15][17].

Core Viewpoint - China is experiencing the fastest population aging process globally, with the elderly population expected to exceed 300 million by 2024, accounting for approximately 22% of the total population, and a significant increase in chronic diseases among the elderly poses challenges to the healthcare system and social security [4][7][33]. Population Aging and Health Challenges - By the end of 2019, the elderly population (aged 60 and above) in China reached 254 million, with an annual growth rate of 3.7%, significantly higher than the global average [4]. - The elderly population is projected to double in the next 25 years, reaching 402 million by 2040, meaning one in three Chinese individuals will be elderly [4]. - Approximately 75% of elderly individuals suffer from chronic diseases, with an average of 2.3 chronic conditions per person, particularly prevalent in urban areas [6][16]. Disease Burden and Trends - The prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases has surged, with cardiovascular diseases being the leading cause of death among the elderly, accounting for nearly 48.98% of deaths in rural areas and 47.35% in urban areas [19][21]. - The number of Alzheimer's disease patients in China surpassed 13 million in 2019, representing 25.5% of the global total, with a standardized prevalence rate of 788.3 per 100,000 [29][30]. Healthcare System and Resource Allocation - The current healthcare system faces challenges in early detection and diagnosis of elderly diseases, with inadequate screening mechanisms and low equipment availability in primary healthcare institutions [36][37]. - There is a significant shortage of geriatric specialists, with only 59,000 doctors for a population of 300 million elderly individuals, highlighting the disparity in healthcare resources [37]. Digitalization and Elderly Care - The shift towards digital healthcare poses challenges for the elderly, many of whom struggle with using technology for medical services, leading to difficulties in accessing healthcare [45][48]. - The psychological health of "empty nest" elderly individuals is a growing concern, as isolation can lead to depression and anxiety [49]. Future Directions - There is an urgent need to establish an integrated prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation system for elderly diseases to address the health challenges posed by an aging population [33]. - The focus is on building a resilient healthcare system that balances resources between urban and rural areas, ensuring equitable access to elderly health services [54].