Conceptual Framework
Given the significant demographic changes and considering the percentage of the global population aged 65 and older, there is an observed increase from 5.3% to 6.9% of the total population between 1960 and 2000 and a projected increase to 15.6% by 2050. These figures require profound and meaningful changes experienced by all societies and in the family structure itself. Consequently, it makes sense to establish health and social structures for the elderly to enhance the quality of life and well-being associated with the ageing process.
The coordination among higher education, research, and service provision in the field of Gerontology is currently one of the main pillars of development and innovation.
This involves creating relevant and tailored responses, as well as engaging professors and researchers in direct contact with technicians and organisations supporting the elderly. This interaction promotes the convergence of these “worlds” to establish communication channels and synergies between academia and practical/real-world contexts.
Thus emerges the present International Institute of Gerontology, aiming to associate academic knowledge in the field of Gerontology with the creation of effective responses to support both formal and informal caregivers of the elderly. In this way, the intention is to address a transversal need in all societies and in certain family and organisational contexts, as the support system for the elderly, as well as caregivers, still facing significant and severe shortcomings in its ability to meet the various implicit needs and areas of intervention.
Considering that the present institute emerges within the scope of a Higher Education Institution (HEI), more precisely at ISAVE – Higher Institute of Health, the activities carried out are monitored by CICS – Centro Interdisciplinar em Ciências da Saúde (Interdisciplinary Center in Health Sciences), which is part of the HEI. The aim is to enhance research conducted within the institution, particularly in the field of ageing, involving professors, students, and invited researchers in relevant topics for the ongoing research work.
PRIMARY GOAL
Therefore, the primary goal of this institute is to align scientific knowledge with the real needs of the existing health and social responses for the elderly. Additionally, it aims to qualify these organisations to meet the demands imposed by the ageing process itself.