From a critical analysis of the current models of health care for the elderly, this opinion article presents a proposal for a line of care for this age group with a focus on health promotion and prevention. The alternative to avoid the overhead of this system is to invest in policies for disease prevention, stabilization of chronic diseases and maintenance of functional capacity. Scientific knowledge has correctly identified the risk factors for the elderly, but this is not enough. It is a priority to use this knowledge to make the necessary transition from clinical care model for the model with emphasis on prevention. The model needs to configure itself as a stream of education initiatives, health promotion, prevention of preventable diseases, delay of diseases, early care and rehabilitation of injuries. That is, a line of care for the elderly as a healthcare course within an articulated network and referenced with an information system designed in line with this logic.
human aging; elderly; disease prevention; chronic disease; line of care
