Integrating intrinsic capacity into Latin American medical education: a comprehensive framework for future physicians

Abstract

This study advocates the integration of the World Health Organization’s intrinsic capacity (IC) framework — encompassing physical, mental, and psychological well-being — into Latin American medical education to address the challenges associated with population aging. This region faces rapid demographic aging amid health inequities, fragmented systems, and social determinants such as poverty and limited access to health care services. Traditional medical training, focused on reactive disease management, often neglects preventive, person-centered approaches that are critical for healthy aging. Embedding IC into medical curricula equips practitioners to assess older adults’ mobility, cognition, vitality, and psychological health, allowing personalized interventions. This shift prioritizes early risk detection, autonomy preservation, and interdisciplinary collaboration across health care and social services. Effective implementation requires systemic reforms, including updated curricula, the training of educators, and partnerships between universities, governments, and non-governmental organizations. In resource-limited settings, IC-aligned care could reduce hospitalizations, promote aging in place, and alleviate strained systems. By addressing biological and socioenvironmental factors, this approach fosters more equitable models aligned with Latin America’s demographic realities. Integrating IC into medical education strengthens the connection between clinical practice and the complex needs of older adults, improving their quality of life and strengthening the health system.

Keywords

• healthy aging
• education, medical
• latin america
• preventive medicine
• patient-centered care
• curriculum