What strategy can be implemented to support aging populations facing health disparities?

Developing age-friendly health systems is a crucial strategy for supporting aging populations that face health disparities because it focuses on creating healthcare environments that are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of older adults. This approach emphasizes accessibility, quality care, and a holistic understanding of aging-related health issues, which can significantly impact the quality of life for older individuals.

Age-friendly health systems prioritize comprehensive care, ensuring that services are not only physically accessible but also culturally competent and responsive to the varied backgrounds and experiences of older adults. By promoting initiatives such as integrated care coordination, preventive services, and patient education, age-friendly systems can better address the specific health challenges that older populations face, including chronic diseases, mental health issues, and mobility limitations.

Furthermore, these systems often involve collaborative efforts with community organizations to foster environments that support healthy aging, enhance social well-being, and reduce isolation—factors that contribute to overall health disparities. Implementing such strategies can lead to improved health outcomes and reduce inequalities among aging individuals, aligning with current public health goals.

The other options suggest approaches that would negatively impact the health and well-being of older adults, making them inappropriate strategies for addressing health disparities.