Aim: This paper describes morbidity patterns among older people, relevant health-care resources in a localised population in a developing country (Jamaica) and implications for ‘ageing in place’ in the community.
Methods: Local morbidity patterns among older people were determined in Jamaica from a 2007 cross-sectional study involving record searches at major hospitals and clinics. Age-specific morbidity distributions were compiled. Data on health-care staff complement were also collected.
Results: Non-communicable diseases predominate in older people in Jamaica; 50% of diagnoses related to cardiovascular disorders and diabetes. Staff-to-population ratios were low compared with other international data.
Conclusion: A high prevalence of non-communicable disease coupled with inadequate staffing threatens the likelihood of ‘ageing in place’ in the Jamaican community. Secondary prevention efforts and social support services which enhance ageing in place are needed.