Traditional and Complementary Medicine in the Management of Chronic Diseases in Older Adults: A Review of Scientific Literature and Bilbiometric Analysis

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Abstract
Introduction: This study systematically reviewed 21 scientific articles published between 2002 and 2024 to examine the role of traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) in promoting health, healthy aging, and overall well-being among older adults with chronic diseases.Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining bibliometric and qualitative analyses to identify patterns of use, regional approaches, cultural dimensions, and proposals for the institutional integration of TCM.Results: The findings revealed that the adoption of TCM was influenced not only by the perceived efficacy of interventions but also by sociocultural, spiritual, and structural factors. TCM emerged as a significant alternative in primary care, particularly in contexts with limited access to biomedical services, supporting autonomy, community resilience, and health equity. The review also identified potential benefits of integrating TCM into healthcare systems, alongside risks related to the lack of regulation, especially for older adults with polypharmacy. Additionally, regulatory gaps, institutional resistance, and insufficient cultural competency training among healthcare professionals were observed.Conclusions: The study proposed the development of intercultural care models to recognize the value of traditional knowledge and ensure its ethical and safe incorporation into healthcare systems. Future research should evaluate the clinical and sociocultural impacts of TCM, explore the role of healthcare personnel in its implementation, and promote participatory policy-making to strengthen inclusive and comprehensive care for older adults.or unstructured, no longer than 250 words; written in the past tense and in the third person singular.

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