Need for Perspective change to welcome aging in communities

Need for Perspective change to welcome aging in communities

The global phenomenon of population aging demands special focus in the current scenario. With advancements in healthcare and technology, longevity has increased, leading to a larger elderly population worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been proactive in acknowledging this shift and advocating for the inclusion of the elderly in policy development to ensure an inclusive environment.

Since 2007, WHO has emphasized the importance of integrating the elderly into all stages of policy development to create effective physical and social environments and to provide necessary services. This initiative aligns with the eight domains outlined by WHO, which aim to cater to the holistic well-being of the elderly population.

The trend of population aging is well documented by different organizations and numerous studies have pointed out the concerns regarding the demographic shift and Kerala is state which has shown huge demographic transition due its working population migrating abroad.

Despite the abundance of studies focusing on the age-friendliness of communities, particularly in developed countries, there is a lack of research and standardized methods to investigate age-friendliness in developing countries.

Our state has a numerous policies providing services for the health care needs of the elderly. The state is committed to improving the quality of life for the elderly but acts provider rather than a facilitator. While healthcare services are vital, attention should also be directed towards creating environments where the elderly can thrive and enjoy their lives.

Active aging, a concept frequently promoted, encourages engagement with immediate surroundings, contributing to mental well-being. However, there's a notable gap between promoting active aging and ensuring the adaptability of environments to support it.

One significant challenge lies in changing perceptions, both among the elderly themselves and within communities. Many elderly individuals may withdraw from their neighborhoods due to perceived restrictions or lack of accessibility in public spaces. To address this, concerted efforts are needed to develop environments that cater to the needs and preferences of the elderly, fostering inclusivity and active engagement.