The objective of this programme is to stimulate discussion and understanding of the relationship between health and longevity from a life-course perspective. This is done in the context of the highly complex and multi-faceted nature of growing old in society. Special emphasis is put on the totality of the human being including health, social and economic aspects. Health problems related to the elderly in developing countries will be highlighted.

The programme is divided into lectures, seminars and site-visits to local facilities. Topics include: the Nature of Ageing; the Relation between Ageing and Disease; Health Expectancies; Risk Factors; the Burden of Chronic Disease and Disabilities; Dementia and other major conditions prevalent at Older Age; Policies and Practices for Health Promotion; Prevention; Holistic Care and Rehabilitation: Financing Care.

This programme is aimed at upper level health professionals (from various disciplines) holding or being proposed for leadership positions in the care of older persons and having being able to assure responsibility for health service planning, delivery and training with a potential to disseminate the acquired information.