The role of pharmacists in the care of older persons

According to the United Nations, older persons represent a large and growing segment of the population. Almost 700 million people are now over 60, and by 2050 there will be more people over the age of 60 than children in the world. There is an urgent need to ensure that older persons can fully participate in all spheres of social life, including access to quality health care and support services.

 Pharmacists, as accessible and trusted healthcare providers, have a key role in supporting healthy ageing and improving the quality of life of older persons. From medicines optimisation to chronic disease management, falls prevention and palliative care, pharmacists are in a unique position to contribute to integrated, person-centred care across various settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care and home care.

This webinar series will highlight and explore the diverse roles of pharmacists in caring for older populations around the world.

Promoting healthy ageing: Evolving roles and practical tools for pharmacists

1 October 2025

With the world’s population ageing rapidly, pharmacists have a growing role in promoting health, independence and quality of life for older persons. This digital event marks the International Day of Older Persons and brings together global experts to explore strategies from the World Health Organization, updated definitions and preventive approaches to healthy ageing, and the evolving role of community pharmacists. The session will also showcase the e-TRIGGER programme, which targets healthcare professionals working with older adults. Through expert insights and practical examples, the session will equip pharmacists to play a proactive role in meeting the needs of ageing communities.

Moderator:

- Sherif Guorgui, President, FIP Community Pharmacy Section, FIP, Canada

Panellists:

- Yongjie Yon, Technical Officer on Ageing and Health, WHO Europe, Denmark

- Michel Jean-Pierre, Former head of the Geriatric Department – Geneva University Hospitals, Centre Medical Universitaire de Genève, Switzerland

- Ermira Krasniqi, Associate Professor, AMECC “Rezonanca”, Kosovo

- Rafaela Da Silva F., Senior Scientific Project Manager, Health Sciences e Training, Switzerland