Spine Surgery in an Aging Population

The growing population of people aged 65 and older has significant implications for health care systems and spine care providers. Older patients today demand interventions that enable them to return to a functional lifestyle. Treatment of degenerative spine disease in aging adults requires in-depth understanding of changes in physiology, biomechanics, function, and modifiable risk factors. Equally important, providers need to listen to patients, diagnose thoughtfully, learn about the person's goals, and teach them in plain language about the risks, alternatives, and expectations of treatment options. This foundation is critical to developing informed patient-centered treatment plans to improve outcomes.