Ethics of working with the elderly

Contemporary demographic challenges, associated with a rapidly aging population, make it necessary for the medical community and the health care system to redefine ethical standards in working with the elderly. This paper attempts a multifaceted analysis of key ethical issues in the context of geriatric care, taking into account not only the fundamental principles of bioethics, but also the challenges posed by cognitive limitations, communication problems and the specifics of terminal care. Particular emphasis is placed on respecting patient autonomy, countering futile therapy and the need to develop interpersonal competence in the patient-medical staff relationship. The article is a voice in the discussion of the need to humanize modern geriatric medicine, advocating a model of care based on empathy, justice and human dignity in every phase of life.